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

Joe Lonsdale, a Palantir co-founder and financial backer of conservative causes, is definitely happy all around.

From Slate

“There’s criticism of electric vehicles, but, then again, his biggest backer runs an electric vehicle company. Tesla gets a lot of business in California, so I think it’s an open question,” Martinez said.

From Los Angeles Times

The platform provides a bigger megaphone than Truth Social, and Elon Musk, its owner, is now Trump’s most important backer.

From Slate

Israel sees Iran as the crucial backer of the Hamas attacks which killed about 1,200 people on 7 October last year.

From BBC

The election will also have an impact on US military aid to Ukraine - America is by far its biggest military backer.

From BBC

Related Words

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