backstage

6 synonyms and 1 antonym for backstage, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.

Adj/adv — Behind or toward the area of a theatre out of the audience's view, where performers wait and prepare.

Synonyms

Everyday swaps

Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.

wing

Rare, literary or technical

Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.

behind the scenes in the wings offstage green room out of public view

Synonyms by Meaning

1. adj/adv

Behind or toward the area of a theatre out of the audience's view, where performers wait and prepare.

“She waited backstage nervously before her first solo.”

behind the scenes in the wings offstage green room out of public view

2. adj/adv

Hidden from public view; happening privately behind the scenes of an event or organization.

“There was a lot of backstage negotiating before the deal was announced.”

Opposites

public

3. noun

The area of a theatre behind the stage, including dressing rooms, where performers and crew work out of the audience's sight.

“Fans were given a tour of backstage after the concert.”

offstage wing

How to use backstage

The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.

backstage pass backstage area go backstage

Etymology

From back + stage — literally the space located behind the performing area of a theatre.

Full origin of backstage →

Frequently asked questions

What does “backstage” mean?

The word “backstage” means behind or toward the area of a theatre out of the audience's view, where performers wait and prepare. In plain terms, behind the scenes — either literally behind a theatre stage, or figuratively, out of public view.

How do you pronounce “backstage”?

“Backstage” is pronounced bak-STAYJ (/bækˈsteɪd͡ʒ/ in IPA).

How do you use “backstage” in a sentence?

Here is “backstage” used in a sentence: “She waited backstage nervously before her first solo.”

What part of speech is “backstage”?

Depending on how it is used, “backstage” can be an adj/adv and a noun.

Is “backstage” a common word?

“Backstage” is an uncommon word in modern English.

How many meanings does “backstage” have?

“Backstage” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: behind or toward the area of a theatre out of the audience's view, where performers wait and prepare.

What is the difference between backstage and offstage?

Backstage specifically refers to the area behind the stage where performers and crew prepare and work, such as dressing rooms and wings. Offstage is a broader term for anywhere outside the audience's view during a performance, including areas that aren't necessarily part of the backstage space.

Can backstage be used as a noun?

Yes, backstage functions as a noun meaning the area of a theatre behind the stage, as in 'she gave us a tour of the backstage.' It is more commonly used as an adjective or adverb, as in 'a backstage pass' or 'go backstage after the show.'

What does it mean when something happens 'backstage' in a figurative sense?

Figuratively, 'backstage' describes activity that is hidden from public view and happens privately behind the scenes of an event or organization. For example, backstage negotiations refers to private discussions the public doesn't see, even though no literal theatre is involved.

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