# backstop

/ˈbækˌstɑp/ (US) · /bˈækstɒp/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/backstop
Updated: 2026-10-18

## Definition

a backup plan or extra support that stops things from going badly if your main plan fails. You use it when you want to feel safe.

For teachers: a safeguard or contingency arrangement that prevents failure when a primary plan or agreement breaks down. Often used for financial guarantees, safety nets, and negotiated settlements.

## Examples

- They keep extra money as a backstop for hard times.
- The company keeps a cash reserve as a backstop if sales drop suddenly.
- The treaty included a legal backstop to keep the border open even if later talks failed to produce agreement.

## Synonyms

backup, fallback

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.