Backline Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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backline

[ˈbæk.laɪn ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

music

The backline refers to the equipment such as amplifiers, drum kits, and keyboards positioned at the back of the stage for use by musicians during a performance.

Synonyms

equipment, gear, instruments.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
backline	In sports, particularly in rugby or soccer, backline refers to the defensive players or the players positioned further back on the field. The backline did a great job defending against the opposing team. Our coach focused on strengthening the backline during practice.
equipment	Refers to the tools or items needed for a particular purpose or activity, often used in a broader and more general sense compared to 'gear'. The laboratory was filled with new equipment for the research project. We need to check the climbing equipment before our trip.
gear	Often used in casual or outdoor settings to talk about the items or tools needed for a specific activity, usually emphasizing personal equipment more than heavy or large-scale items. Make sure you have all your hiking gear before we leave. The camping gear is stored in the garage.
instruments	Typically refers to musical tools like guitars, pianos, violins, etc., or tools used for scientific or technical purposes. The band members tuned their instruments before the performance. He used various instruments to conduct the experiment.

Examples of usage

The guitarist's backline included two amplifiers and a pedalboard.
The drummer's backline was set up with electronic drums for the show.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

sports

In sports, the backline typically refers to the defensive players positioned behind the midfielders, responsible for protecting the goal.

Synonyms

defenders, defense, rear guard.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
backline	Used mainly in sports, especially in soccer, rugby, and hockey, to refer to the players who play in the defensive positions. The team's backline was solid, preventing any goals from the opposition The coach emphasized the importance of the backline in maintaining a strong defense
defense	General term used in sports and military contexts to describe efforts to protect from attack or prevent an opponent from scoring or succeeding. Our defense strategy stopped the opposing team in their tracks The military planned a strong defense to safeguard the city
defenders	Commonly used in sports to refer to players whose primary role is to prevent the opposing team from scoring. The defenders worked hard to keep the attackers at bay Her skill as a defender helped the team secure a victory
rear guard	Primarily used in military contexts to describe troops positioned at the back of a formation to protect against attacks from the rear. Can also be used metaphorically in other contexts but is less common. The rear guard was tasked with ensuring the troops' safe withdrawal In the business world, he acted as the company's rear guard, defending it from hostile takeovers

Examples of usage

The team's backline did a great job of blocking the opponent's shots.
The goalie is an essential part of the backline in soccer.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Sports

In soccer, the backline consists of defenders who work to stop the opposing team's forwards from scoring.
In volleyball, the backline includes players who play back row positions, focusing on defense and receiving serves.
In rugby, the backline typically includes players who are critical in attack and defense, working closely with forwards.

Music

In a performance, backline refers to the equipment and instruments set up behind the main performers, like amps and drums.
Some bands refer to their road crew as the backline, as they play a significant role in setting up and ensuring a smooth show.

Culture

The phrase 'backline' is often used metaphorically in business to refer to teams that support key activities, just like athletes who support star players.
In different cultures, the concept of 'support' is essential, reflecting the interconnectedness of teamwork in both sports and everyday life.

Psychology

Players in a backline position often develop strong decision-making skills, as they must quickly assess situations and react under pressure.
Research indicates that individuals in supportive roles, like those in the backline of a team, can feel just as fulfilled as those in more visible roles.

Origin of 'backline'

Main points about word origin

The term 'backline' likely comes from its use in various team sports, highlighting the defensive line positioned at the back.
It became popular in sports terminology during the mid-20th century as teams began to adopt more structured formations.

The term 'backline' originated in the music industry, specifically in the context of live performances where equipment is set up at the back of the stage. Over time, it has also been adopted in sports to refer to defensive players. The word highlights the importance of the equipment or players positioned at the back for a successful outcome.