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noun Uncommon

backseat

Backseat (noun) means the row of seats behind the front seat in a vehicle. Example: “The kids argued over who got the backseat.”

noun
1
The row of seats behind the front seat in a vehicle.
"The kids argued over who got the backseat."
verb
1
To offer unwanted advice or criticism from the sidelines, as a backseat driver does.
"He kept backseating my presentation with unsolicited edits."

How to use backseat

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishThe rear seat of a car, or the act of meddling from the sidelines without taking real responsibility.

Common pairings
backseat driver take a backseat

Word forms

backseated past tense, backseats singular

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The kids argued over who got the _____.

Etymology

From back + seat.

Rhymes for backseat

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Frequently asked questions

What does “backseat” mean?

The word “backseat” means the row of seats behind the front seat in a vehicle. In plain terms, the rear seat of a car, or the act of meddling from the sidelines without taking real responsibility.

How do you use “backseat” in a sentence?

Here is “backseat” used in a sentence: “The kids argued over who got the backseat.”

What part of speech is “backseat”?

Depending on how it is used, “backseat” can be a noun and a verb.

Is “backseat” a common word?

“Backseat” is an uncommon word in modern English.

How many meanings does “backseat” have?

“Backseat” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: the row of seats behind the front seat in a vehicle.

Definitions: FreeDict original editorial