backcourt

noun

back·​court ˈbak-ˈkȯrt How to pronounce backcourt (audio)
1
: the area near or nearest the back boundary lines or back wall of the playing area in a net or court game
2
a
: a basketball team's defensive half of the court
b
: the positions of the guards on a basketball team
also : the guards themselves
a team with a strong backcourt

Examples of backcourt 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.
In the meantime, the Kings will look to rely on Keon Ellis, Devin Carter, and Markelle Fultz in the backcourt. Raja Krishnamoorthi, MSNBC Newsweek, 10 Apr. 2025 Clayton’s backcourt mate, Daniss Jenkins, followed Pitino to Queens; the broader assumption was Clayton would do the same. Brendan Marks, New York Times, 8 Apr. 2025 But poor shooting from Boston’s backcourt, a rash of Celtics turnovers and some sorcerous shot-making from Ja Morant (7-for-9, 19 points before halftime) helped Memphis build a 10-point second-quarter lead. Zack Cox, Boston Herald, 1 Apr. 2025 If the Sixers lean more heavily on their backcourt as their primary offensive engine, that would reduce some of the scoring burden on Embiid and George. Bryan Toporek, Forbes.com, 31 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for backcourt

Word History

First Known Use

1884, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of backcourt was in 1884

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Cite this Entry

“Backcourt.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/backcourt. Accessed 13 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

backcourt

noun
back·​court -ˈkō(ə)rt How to pronounce backcourt (audio)
-ˈkȯ(ə)rt
1
: a basketball team's defensive half of the court
2
: the positions of the guards on a basketball team
also : the guards themselves
a team with a strong backcourt
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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