Definition

In basketball, this term refers to the area of the court that is farthest from the basket a team is attacking, as well as the guards who play in that area.

Example

The team's strategy focused on improving their defense in the backcourt.

Conversation

Did you see how the team played in the backcourt last night?

Yeah, they really improved their defense this time.

I know! Especially when they managed to steal the ball in the backcourt.

That was a game changer for sure!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Backcourt → It is formed from "back" (from Old English "bæc", meaning the rear or behind) and "court" (from Old French "cort", meaning an enclosed area or yard). The term "backcourt" refers to the area behind the main playing area in sports like basketball, specifically the part of the court that is farthest from the offensive team's basket.

Memory Tip

Think of the 'back' as the 'rear' and 'court' as an 'enclosed area' — together, they describe the area behind the main playing space.

Visually Confused Words