backer

[ bak-er ]

noun

1. a person who supports or aids a person, cause, enterprise, etc.

   Synonyms: helper, aide, guarantor, sponsor, supporter

2. a person who bets on a competitor in a race or contest.
3. canvas or other material used for backing.

backer

/ ˈbækə /

noun

1. a person who gives financial or other support
2. a person who bets on a competitor or contestant

Word History and Origins

Origin of backer¹

First recorded in 1535–45; back ¹ + -er ¹

Example Sentences

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky told Fox News late on Tuesday that Ukraine would lose the war if Washington, its main military backer, pulled funding.

From BBC

Musk — whose own immigration status early in his career has come under scrutiny — and other Silicon Valley backers today want highly-skilled foreign workers.

From New York Times

He had been flagged by Canadian intelligence as a high-profile target of Iran, who is a backer of Hamas.

From BBC

Carr has attacked what he sees as the censorship of conservative viewpoints by top social media firms other than X, a site owned by his ally and fellow Trump backer, Elon Musk.

From BBC

The measure’s backers “were saying, ‘This forces prisoners to work.’

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• advocate
• ally
• benefactor
• endorser
• follower
• patron
• promoter
• sponsor