Past tense of back; supported, endorsed, or provided with backing. Can refer to financial support, physical reinforcement, or moral endorsement.
From Old English bæc meaning 'back of the body,' which developed metaphorical meanings of support and reinforcement. The sense of 'to support' emerged in the 16th century, reflecting the idea of standing behind someone or something.
The phrase 'backed into a corner' shows how the word's physical origins create powerful metaphors! Whether it's venture capital 'backing' a startup or data being 'backed up,' the concept of support and reinforcement remains central to the word's meaning.
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