backup

/ˈbækˌʌp/
noun
  1. A copy of computer data made in case the original is lost or damaged.
    • She lost all her photos because she didn't have a backup.
    • The system automatically creates a backup every night at midnight.
    • Always keep a backup of your important files on an external hard drive.
  2. Extra help, support, or resources available when needed.
    • The team brought a backup player in case someone got injured.
    • We have a backup generator in case the power goes out.
    • The police called for backup when the situation got out of control.
  3. A person or thing that serves as a substitute or replacement.
    • Keep a backup key hidden outside your house.
    • The backup driver took over when the main driver got tired.
    • He is the backup for the lead singer in the band.
  4. A buildup or accumulation, especially of traffic or work.
    • There was a huge backup on the highway due to an accident.
    • The backup of paperwork on her desk made her feel overwhelmed.
    • A backup in the drainage system caused the basement to flood.
verb
  1. To make a copy of computer data for safekeeping.
    • She backs up her photos to the cloud every week.
    • The IT department backs up the server data daily.
    • Remember to backup your files before updating the software.
  2. To support or reinforce someone or something.
    • I'll backup your story if anyone questions it.
    • The other team members backed up his proposal during the meeting.
    • Her evidence backed up the claims in the report.
  3. To move backward, especially a vehicle.
    • He backed up the truck to the loading dock.
    • The driver backed up to let the ambulance pass.
    • She backed up carefully to avoid hitting the mailbox.
adjective
  1. Extra or reserve; serving as a substitute or support.
    • She keeps a backup pair of glasses in her desk drawer.
    • The backup battery kept the phone running for another hour.
    • We have a backup plan in case it rains on the picnic.
Antonyms
What does "backup" mean? | whatsthatwordmean | whatsthatwordmean