backup
1 ENTRIES FOUND:
plural
backups
plural
backups
Britannica Dictionary definition of BACKUP
1
a
[count]
:
a person or thing that can be used to replace or support another person or thing
— often used before another noun
-
His role on the team is to be a backup to the regular quarterback.
-
We have an extra radio as a backup in case this one doesn't work.
-
a backup quarterback
-
We need a backup plan in case of emergency.
b
[noncount]
:
help or support provided by additional people or things
-
The policeman called for backup [=called for other police to come and help him] because the suspect was carrying a gun.
-
We have an extra radio for backup.
-
He provides backup for the regular quarterback.
2
[count]
US
:
a situation in which the flow of something (such as traffic) becomes blocked
-
There was a traffic backup [=(Brit) tailback] for miles on the road because of the accident.
-
There was a backup [=blockage] in the drain.
3
[noncount]
:
a musical part that is sung to support the main singer
— often used before another noun
-
She sang backup on his CD.
4
[count]
:
a copy of information stored on a computer
— often used before another noun
-
Be sure to make a backup of your work.
-
a backup file/copy
also
:
the act or process of making such a copy
—
see also back up at 4back
-
It may take some time for the backup to be complete.
