Backstop: meaning, definitions and examples

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backstop

[ ˈbækˌstɒp ]

^{Context #1}

in sports

A person or thing that serves as a support, protection, or reinforcement.

Synonyms

protection, reinforcement, support

Examples of usage

The goalkeeper acted as a backstop for the defense.
The safety net served as a backstop for the trapeze artist.

^{Context #2}

in finance

A security or other means of protection against financial loss.

Synonyms

guarantee, protection, safeguard

Examples of usage

The insurance policy acted as a backstop in case of unexpected expenses.
The government provided a financial backstop for the struggling industry.

Translations

Translations of the word "backstop" in other languages:

🇵🇹 parada de emergência

🇮🇳 पीछे की सुरक्षा

🇩🇪 Notstopp

🇮🇩 pemberhentian darurat

🇺🇦 аварійна зупинка

🇵🇱 awaryjne zatrzymanie

🇯🇵 非常停止

🇫🇷 arrêt d'urgence

🇪🇸 parada de emergencia

🇹🇷 acil durdurma

🇰🇷 비상 정지

🇸🇦 توقف الطوارئ

🇨🇿 nouzové zastavení

🇸🇰 núdzové zastavenie

🇨🇳 紧急停止

🇸🇮 nujna zaustavitev

🇮🇸 neyðarstöðvun

🇰🇿 апатты тоқтату

🇬🇪 საგანგებო გაჩერება

🇦🇿 təcili dayandırma

🇲🇽 parada de emergencia

Word origin

The term 'backstop' originated in the mid-19th century, combining 'back' and 'stop'. It initially referred to a device used to prevent a loaded cart from rolling downhill. Over time, the term evolved to be used in various contexts, such as sports and finance, to denote a support or protection mechanism. The concept of a backstop continues to be relevant in modern times, symbolizing a safety net or security measure.