backlist

[ bak-list ]

noun

1. the books that a publisher has kept in print over several years, as distinguished from newly issued titles.

adjective

1. Also backlisted. placed or maintained on a backlist.

verb (used with object)

1. to place on a backlist.

backlist

/ ˈbækˌlɪst /

noun

1. a publisher's previously published books that are still available See also front list mid-list

Word History and Origins

Origin of backlist¹

First recorded in 1945–50; back ² + list ¹

Example Sentences

Adaf’s backlist is some of the most impressive cross-genre work I’ve read.

From Washington Post

In 2020, backlist titles made up a stunning 67 percent of the 751 million print units sold, according to NPD BookScan.

From Popular-Science

Though Netflix boasts strong brand recognition, both in the gaming world and in general, its thin backlist of original games is unlikely to entice core gamers.

From Digiday

The motto of this column is that the backlist is for weenies.

From The Daily Beast