backdrop

[ bak-drop ]

noun

1. alsocalledcomma especially British, back-cloth [bak, -klawth, -kloth] . Theater. the rear curtain of a stage setting.
2. the background of an event; setting.
3. Gymnastics. a maneuver in which a trampolinist jumps in the air, lands on the back with the arms and legs pointed upward, and then springs up to a standing position.

verb (used with object)

, back·dropped or back·dropt, back·drop·ping.

1. to provide a setting or background for:

   A vast mountain range backdrops the broad expanse of lake.

backdrop

/ ˈbækˌdrɒp /

noun

1. another name for backcloth
2. the background to any scene or situation

Word History and Origins

Origin of backdrop¹

An Americanism dating back to 1910–15; back ¹ + drop

Example Sentences

Despite a pledge to be a president who presides over peace rather than war, Trump takes office against a backdrop of global upheaval: wars in Ukraine and the Middle East, the increasing closeness of Russia and North Korea, an ascendant China.

From Los Angeles Times

The show was in development over the last five years, against the backdrop of events like the Black Lives Matter protests.

From Los Angeles Times

He said the Budget created a "worrying" backdrop for businesses at a time when economic growth is desperately needed.

From BBC

Against this backdrop of public unease, Zoox is stressing to San Franciscans that it has prepared for this new roll-out.

From Los Angeles Times

“In the backdrop, we had this growing anti-immigrant, nativist, fascist rhetoric rising in the country,” said Perea, the executive director of the Harbor Institute for Immigrant and Economic Justice.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• scenery