Backdrop

/ˈbæk.drɒp/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A painted cloth or set walling used in theater as a background for the action.

The actors performed in front of a beautiful mountain backdrop that transported the audience to a remote cabin in the woods.

The setting or context in which an event occurs.

The political upheaval provided a dramatic backdrop for the novel's plot.

A large piece of fabric or material used to cover the back wall of a stage.

The stage crew changed the backdrop to a city skyline for the urban-themed production.

The scenery or environment that serves as a background for a photograph or event.

The wedding was set against the picturesque backdrop of the sunset over the ocean.

From 'back' + 'drop', originally referring to something that is dropped or hung down at the back.

set the backdrop

To create a setting or context for an event or narrative.

backdrop of history

The historical context surrounding a particular event.

scene

A place where an event occurs, often with visual elements.

stage

A raised platform where performances take place.

In photography, the term 'backdrop' can refer to any background used in shoots.

For the photoshoot, we used an amazing floral backdrop.

Often used metaphorically to mean the background situation that is not immediately visible.

She always has a dramatic backdrop of problems behind her calm demeanor.