English Reference
noun · verb

backs

n. · v.
US /ˈbæks/ UK /bˈæks/ backs

  1. 01 A1 Beginner

    n.the rear parts of human or animal bodies, from the neck to the waist.

    n.the posterior parts of the human or animal body, extending from the neck to the pelvis.

    Simple

    The swimmers had very strong backs from years of training in the pool.

    In context

    The physical therapist noted that many office workers suffer from strained backs due to poor ergonomic setups at their desks.

  2. 02 A2 Elementary

    n.the parts of things that are furthest from the front.

    n.the posterior or reverse sides of objects, buildings, or documents.

    Simple

    Please write your names on the backs of your test papers.

    In context

    The artist signed the backs of the canvases to ensure the signatures wouldn't distract from the minimalist compositions.

  3. 03 B1 Intermediate

    v.gives help or money to a person, plan, or company.

    v.provides support, whether financial, moral, or political, to a person or initiative.

    Simple

    The local community always backs the school's charity events.

    In context

    The venture capital firm typically backs early-stage technology companies that demonstrate high growth potential in emerging markets.

    Usage

    This is the third-person singular form of the verb.

  4. 04 B1 Intermediate

    v.moves a vehicle or person backwards.

    v.causes a vehicle or person to move in a reverse direction.

    Simple

    He carefully backs the car into the garage every evening.

    In context

    The driver slowly backs the delivery truck toward the loading dock while the warehouse staff signal the remaining distance.

    Usage

    Often used with the particle 'up' or 'out'.

This entry
Level A1 · Beginner
Frequency Common
Updated