backboard

American  

[bak-bawrd, -bohrd] / ˈbækˌbɔrd, -ˌboʊrd /

noun

1. a board placed at or forming the back of anything.

2. Basketball. a board or other flat vertical surface to which the basket is attached.

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backboard British  

/ ˈbækˌbɔːd /

noun

1. a board that is placed behind something to form or support its back

2. a board worn to straighten or support the back, as after surgery

3. (in basketball) a flat upright surface supported on a high frame, under which the basket is attached

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Etymology

Origin of backboard

First recorded in 1755–65; back ¹ + board

Example Sentences

But Bryant repeatedly missed his final dunk, a between the legs and off the backboard reverse slam.

From Barron's • Feb. 14, 2026

And Austin Reaves, standing wide open in the corner, shot a three that hit the side of the backboard.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 16, 2024

“Just shoot it,” Bryce commented while walking into the house with his back to the basket as the ball bounced off the backboard and through the hoop.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 19, 2024

Morsell’s heave from just beyond half court hit the backboard and the front of the rim before falling away.

From Seattle Times • Mar. 23, 2024

He took Ben almost underneath the basket, then in a quick, fluid move, he pivoted for a hook shot that caromed lightly off the backboard.

From "The Great Santini" by Pat Conroy