backstory

noun

back·​story ˈbak-ˌstȯr-ē How to pronounce backstory (audio)
: a story that tells what led up to the main story or plot (as of a film)

Examples of backstory in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The fossil that led to the discovery has a dramatic backstory. Leslie Katz, Forbes, 21 Jan. 2025 Cedar Point has developed a backstory for the coaster based on the legend of the Lake Erie sirens who lure sailors to their demise with seductive songs. Brady MacDonald, Orange County Register, 20 Jan. 2025 It’s topped by Alaska, which is celebrating several centennials this year, including Glacier Bay National Park’s big 1-0-0 and the anniversary of the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race, a tradition with a fascinating backstory. Jackie Burrell, The Mercury News, 20 Jan. 2025 The daughter of a sheriff, Bex comes with backstory or two. Matt Webb Mitovich, TVLine, 19 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for backstory 

Word History

First Known Use

1982, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of backstory was in 1982

Dictionary Entries Near backstory

Cite this Entry

“Backstory.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/backstory. Accessed 29 Jan. 2025.

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