backwoods

[ bak-woodz ]

noun

1. (often used with a singular verb) wooded or partially uncleared and unsettled districts.
2. any remote or isolated area.

   Synonyms: backwater, bush, boonies, boondocks, woodland, wild, hinterland

adjective

1. of or relating to the backwoods.
2. unsophisticated; uncouth.

backwoods

/ ˈbækwʊdz /

plural noun

1. partially cleared, sparsely populated forests
2. any remote sparsely populated place
3. modifier of, from, or like the backwoods
4. modifier uncouth; rustic

Word History and Origins

Origin of backwoods¹

An Americanism dating back to 1700–10; back ¹ + woods ¹ (in the sense “a forest”)

Example Sentences

He looks like the backwoods version of a wise wizard from the movies.

From Literature

If you don’t know Atkins’ backstory, it’s a lot like Dolly Parton’s — smart but poor kid in a backwoods cabin, no running water, few prospects, and a lot of heart.

From Los Angeles Times

One day, some newly arrived riflemen from backwoods Virginia were walking through the yards at Harvard.

From Literature

Their adventure turns into a backwoods nightmare when local mountain men assault them.

From Seattle Times

The sources said Wednesday’s shooting shows signs of a planned attack and escape, adding that Card would have advanced backwoods survival skills that could complicate the manhunt.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• backcountry
• outback