Backstop Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ก๏ธ
backstop
[หbรฆkหstษp ]
Definitions
in sports
A person or thing that serves as a support, protection, or reinforcement.
Synonyms
protection, reinforcement, support.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| backstop |
Generally used as a term for a barrier or safeguard that prevents undesirable outcomes. Often used in sports or financial contexts.
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| support |
Commonly used to describe assistance or help provided to someone or something. It can be emotional, financial, or physical.
|
| protection |
Used when referring to keeping someone or something safe from injury, damage, or loss. This term is very broad and can be used in a wide range of contexts.
|
| reinforcement |
Often used in the context of strengthening or supporting an existing structure or idea, whether physically or metaphorically.
|
Examples of usage
- The goalkeeper acted as a backstop for the defense.
- The safety net served as a backstop for the trapeze artist.
in finance
A security or other means of protection against financial loss.
Synonyms
guarantee, protection, safeguard.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| backstop |
Used mainly in sports or in a metaphorical sense to describe a safety net or last line of defense. It can also be specific to financial contexts as a secondary mechanism.
|
| safeguard |
Used when referring to measures or mechanisms put in place to protect someone or something from potential harm.
|
| guarantee |
Used when there is an assurance or promise that something will happen or that a condition will be fulfilled.
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| protection |
Used to describe a state of being safe or shielded from harm, danger, or loss.
|
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
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Sports
- In baseball, the backstop is crucial during pitches and provides a safety net for stray balls.
- The backstop in cricket is a player who stands behind the stumps ready to catch any overthrown balls.
Finance
- In finance, a backstop refers to a guarantee mechanism to protect investors from potential losses.
- This concept is crucial in underwriting agreements, where backstop professionals assure the capital is raised.
Crisis Management
- Emergency plans often include backstop strategies to ensure there are safety nets during crises.
- A political backstop can come in the form of policies that cushion the effects of sudden changes.
Figurative Language
- The word 'backstop' is often used metaphorically to describe any safeguard or support system in various contexts.
- In discussions about policy or decisions, a backstop can serve as a safety measure to prevent risks.
Origin of 'backstop'
Main points about word origin
- Originally, 'backstop' referred to a fence or wall behind a baseball diamond to prevent lost balls.
- The term combines 'back' meaning behind, and 'stop' indicating halting movement, emphasizing its protective role.
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.
See also: back, backbone, backchat, backdrop, backed, backer, backers, backhander, backing, backline, backmarker, backpack, backroom, backside, backspace, backup, backward, backwards, backyard, unbacked.