back

/bæk/

noun, adjective, adverb, verb★Beginner

formal

The rear part of something, especially the human body.

She rubbed her sore back after lifting the heavy box.

He turned to show the back of his shirt.

informal

Support or assistance.

I need your back in this project.

She always has my back when things get tough.

general

To move or go backward.

The car backed out of the driveway.

He backed away from the dangerous situation.

general

To support or endorse something.

The company backed the new environmental policy.

She backed her friend's decision.

back upTo support or provide evidence for something.back offTo stop pressing someone or something.back downTo withdraw from a position or argument.

have someone's backidiom

To support or protect someone.

back to square oneidiom

To return to the beginning of a process.

back and forthphrase

Moving or going in opposite directions repeatedly.

Remember that 'back' can be used in many different contexts, so pay attention to the surrounding words to understand its meaning.

The meaning of 'back' changes significantly based on whether it's used as a noun, verb, or adverb. Always check the context.

Old English 'bæc,' meaning 'back, rear part.'

The word 'back' can function as a noun, adjective, adverb, or verb, depending on the context. It is a versatile word with multiple meanings.

back

Rear part or support.

root

✎ Noted on May 2, 2026EN → EN