back
/bæk//bæk/noun
Definitions
The rear of the body, especially the part between the neck and the end of the spine and opposite the chest and belly.
Example: Could you please scratch my back?
That which is farthest away from the front.
Example: He sat in the back of the room.
Upper part of a natural object which is considered to resemble an animal's back.
Example: The small boat raced over the backs of the waves.
A support or resource in reserve.
verb
Definitions
To go in the reverse direction.
Example: the train backed into the station; the horse refuses to back
To support.
Example: I back you all the way; which horse are you backing in this race?
(of the wind) To change direction contrary to the normal pattern; that is, to shift anticlockwise in the northern hemisphere, or clockwise in the southern hemisphere.
(of a square sail) To brace the yards so that the wind presses on the front of the sail, to slow the ship.
adjective
Definitions
Near the rear.
Example: Go in the back door of the house.
Not current.
Example: I’d like to find a back issue of that magazine.
Far from the main area.
Example: They took a back road.
In arrear; overdue.
Example: They still owe three months' back rent.
adverb
Definitions
To or in a previous condition or place.
Example: He gave back the money. He needs his money back. He was on vacation, but now he’s back. The office fell into chaos when you left, but now order is back.
Away from the front or from an edge.
Example: Sit all the way back in your chair.
In a manner that impedes.
Example: Fear held him back.
In a reciprocal manner; in return.
Example: If you hurt me, I'll hurt you back.