backstory

noun

back·​story ˈbak-ˌstȯr-ē 

: 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

The backstory In a city packed with hotel chains that often feel too buttoned-up, this 83-room boutique property stands out for its free and creative spirit. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 4 Oct. 2026

Gilroy provided a detailed backstory for the fictional film, describing a young widow, a wealthy East Coast summer setting and a boy preparing to go to war. — Jazz Tangcay, Variety, 3 Oct. 2026

The Hotel Particulier pop-up, which doubles as an exhibition, is by appointment only, and tells the backstory behind Galliano’s first collaboration with Zara. — Joe Bobowicz, Vogue, 2 Oct. 2026

There is a quiet yearning to know himself—to find for himself a more substantial backstory and sense of belonging—in what Shimoda pieces together. — Literary Hub, 2 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1982, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for backstory

• aurore
• forbore
• outlawry
• pylori
• savoury
• signori
• signory
• vainglory
• accusatory
• admonitory
• ambulatory
• amendatory