backup

Definition

  • noun: a person or thing that can be used to replace or support another person or thing
  • noun: one that serves as a substitute or support
  • often used before another noun
  • synonyms: accompaniment

Examples

  • The policeman called for 'backup' [=called for other police to come and help him] because the suspect was carrying a gun.

  • There was a traffic 'backup' [=('Brit') 'tailback'] for miles on the road because of the accident.

  • His role on the team is to be a 'backup' to the regular quarterback.

Movie clips

Movie quotes

  • (..) - Myumi. How are you? I'm Bob. - Oh! Bob. Bob from United States, man. Ahh! Hi, Bob. Maybe you'd like to sing backup for me. - This is my surfing teacher. - He's your surfing teacher? Sometime, sometime. You're a surfer? Oh, oui, oui. The emperor's house? Cool. Yeah? Yeah. Cool! Right. (..)
    2003 Lost in Translation