ENGLISH
REFERENCE

backs

n. countable
A1 Beginner US //ˈbæks// UK //bˈæks// backs

n. the rear part of the human body from the neck to the waist. You also use this word for the part of a chair that supports you when you sit.

n. the posterior part of the human body extending from the neck to the pelvis. Also refers to the side of an object that is opposite the front or the part of a seat that supports the spine.


SIMPLE

He carries a heavy bag on his back every day.

CONTEXTUAL

After sitting at the computer for eight hours, her back felt stiff and sore.

COMPLEX

The athlete suffered a strain in the lower muscles of his back during the final set of the competition, forcing him to withdraw from the remaining events.

Synonyms
Antonyms
Usage

Commonly used in the plural 'backs' when referring to the anatomy of multiple people or the rear supports of several chairs.

Idioms1 entry

© 2026 English Reference