backstroke

[ bak-strohk ]

noun

1. a backhanded stroke.
2. Swimming. a stroke made while on one's back.
3. a blow or stroke in return; recoil.

verb (used without object)

, back·stroked, back·strok·ing.

1. Swimming. to swim the backstroke:

   She backstroked across the pool.

backstroke

/ ˈbækˌstrəʊk /

noun

1. Also calledback crawl swimming
   1. a stroke performed on the back, using backward circular strokes of each arm alternately and flipper movements of the feet
   2. ( as modifier )

      the backstroke champion

2. a return stroke or blow
3. a backhanded stroke
4. Leisure:Bell-ringing the upward movement of the bell rope as the bell swings back and forth Compare handstroke

verb

1. intr to swim the backstroke

Word History and Origins

Origin of backstroke¹

First recorded in 1665–75; back ² + stroke ¹

Example Sentences

Watch her steal the show in the 100-meter backstroke Monday.

From The Daily Beast

A backstroke of Gino's oar, however, soon brought the side of the arrested boat to a flight of steps.

From Project Gutenberg

Previously to this, the "backstroke" of the steamboat engine was either unknown or not generally known.

From Project Gutenberg

"C" some distance to right of point but on level with "E." The backstroke of the latter nearly touches the point.

From Project Gutenberg

After this desperate backstroke, as Warburton justly calls it, Macbeth engages in another combat equally sanguinary.

From Project Gutenberg