English Reference
adverb · adjective · noun

backstage

adv. · adj. · n.
US /ˈbækˈsteɪdʒ/ UK /bˈæksteɪdʒ/ back·stage

  1. 01 B1 Intermediate Theatre

    adv.in or towards the area behind the stage where the audience cannot see you.

    adv.situated or moving in the area behind the stage, typically including dressing rooms and wings.

    Simple

    The actors went backstage to change their clothes for the next scene.

    In context

    After the final curtain call, the lead performers retreated backstage to escape the crowd of photographers waiting at the stage door.

  2. 02 B1 Intermediate Theatre

    adj.describing things that happen or are located behind the stage.

    adj.relating to or situated in the area behind a stage; often used to describe staff or equipment.

    Simple

    She has a backstage pass that lets her meet the band after the concert.

    In context

    The backstage crew worked in near-total darkness to reposition the heavy scenery before the lights came up for the second act.

    offstage
  3. 03 B1 Intermediate Theatre

    n.the part of a theatre that the audience does not see.

    n.the area behind the stage of a theatre, including the dressing rooms and technical areas.

    Simple

    It was very crowded backstage with all the dancers and musicians.

    In context

    The atmosphere backstage was a chaotic mix of nervous energy and technical precision as the stage manager coordinated the final cues.

    wingsdressing rooms
  4. 04 C1 Advanced Formal

    adj.happening in private, away from the public or the media.

    adj.occurring away from public view or scrutiny; often used to describe political or business negotiations.

    Simple

    The two leaders made a backstage deal before the official meeting started.

    In context

    While the public debate was civil, backstage negotiations were reportedly fraught with tension and mutual distrust between the two factions.


From back + stage.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Level B1 · Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated