backstop Definition
- 1a thing that prevents something from passing or escaping
- 2a contingency plan or measure that comes into effect in the event of something going wrong or failing
Using backstop: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "backstop" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The backstop prevented the ball from going out of bounds.
Example
The insurance policy was a backstop in case of financial loss.
Example
The government has a backstop plan in case of a no-deal Brexit.
backstop Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for backstop
Antonyms for backstop
Phrases with backstop
a protocol included in the Brexit withdrawal agreement between the UK and the EU, aimed at preventing a hard border between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland
Example
The Irish backstop has been a major point of contention in the Brexit negotiations.
a financial arrangement that provides liquidity to financial institutions in times of stress
Example
The Federal Reserve established a backstop facility to provide support to the financial system during the 2008 financial crisis.
a position in baseball played by the catcher, who stands behind home plate to catch pitches that are not hit by the batter
Example
The team's backup catcher was called upon to play the backstop position in the game.
Summary: backstop in Brief
A 'backstop' [ˈbakstɒp] is a protective measure that prevents something from escaping or failing. It can be a physical barrier, like in sports, or a contingency plan, like in finance or politics. Examples include the Irish backstop in Brexit negotiations, a backstop facility for financial institutions, and the backstop position in baseball.
