backstory

noun

back·​story ˈbak-ˌstȯr-ē How to pronounce backstory (audio)
: a story that tells what led up to the main story or plot (as of a film)

Examples of backstory 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.
With or without his unusual backstory, Greenhalgh quickly realised that elite professional football is a dog-eat-dog world, especially for those who are still trying to prove themselves. Stuart James, New York Times, 31 May 2025 But Amir also has a backstory, one that increasingly connects with Robin’s. Bilge Ebiri, Vulture, 28 May 2025 The structural collapse at the Skyview is in strong contention for the all-around best massacre of the series — featuring an ocean of slapstick visual effects and essential backstory that makes the core of the movie. Alison Foreman, IndieWire, 26 May 2025 The backstory of Iranian dissident Panahi and the strength of his Palme d’Or winner as a surprisingly accessible and entertaining, as well as important, film can easily lead to a similar campaign outside of the International Film race. Pete Hammond, Deadline, 24 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for backstory

Word History

First Known Use

1982, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of backstory was in 1982

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Backstory.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/backstory. Accessed 7 Jun. 2025.

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