Definition

A large piece of cloth or material that is hung at the back of a stage to create a background for a performance or event.

Example

The theater used a beautiful backdrop of a sunset for the play.

Conversation

Did you see the new play at the theater last night?

Yeah, the backdrop they used was stunning!

I loved how it set the mood for the entire performance.

Absolutely! It really made the whole story come alive.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Backdrop → It is formed from "back" (from Old English "bæc", meaning the rear or behind) and "drop" (from Old English "drēopan", meaning to fall). The word "backdrop" refers to a background that falls behind a scene, often used in theater or photography.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'behind' ('back') and 'falls' ('drop') — that's why a backdrop is the background that sets the scene.

Visually Confused Words