backing

noun

back·​ing ˈba-kiŋ 

plural backings

1

: something forming a back

a tape with adhesive backing

2

a

: support, aid

financial backing

… sectarian or ethnic warlords battling for territory, with the backing of sponsors from neighboring countries.

—Aparisim Ghosh

b

: the music that is played along with someone who is singing or playing the main tune : the music that accompanies the lead musician

… she plans to record the songs with the backing of an orchestra.

—Cortney Harding

c

: endorsement especially of a warrant by a magistrate

Synonyms

• abetment
• aid
• assist
• assistance
• boost
• hand
• help
• helping hand
• leg up
• lift
• support

Examples of backing in a Sentence

The tape has an adhesive backing.

The project has received financial backing from several investors.

Recent Examples on the Web

Strong backing from the U.S. government under President Trump is set to facilitate energy production and infrastructure development, positioning Stargate as a critical driver of the next phase of AI innovation and adoption. —Luis E. Romero, Forbes, 23 Jan. 2025

Joyce proposed the change with the backing of Councilmember Jimmy Figueroa. —Phil Diehl, San Diego Union-Tribune, 23 Jan. 2025

Stargate is a venture that has the backing of OpenAI, Oracle and Japanese company Softbank, with the latter promising an initial investment of $100 billion, according to Tuesday's announcement. —Aimee Picchi, CBS News, 22 Jan. 2025

Now comes the task that will make or break his tenure: retaining the full backing of his new boss, Donald Trump. —Matt Brown, Chicago Tribune, 21 Jan. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1745, in the meaning defined at sense 2a

Kids Definition

backing

noun

back·​ing ˈbak-iŋ 

1

: something forming a back

2

a

: support entry 2, aid

b

: musical accompaniment

c

: endorsement sense 3, approval

Medical Definition

backing

noun

back·​ing ˈbak-iŋ 

: the metal portion of a dental crown, bridge, or similar structure to which a porcelain or plastic tooth facing is attached