adj/adv
Uncommon
backstage
bak-STAYJ
Backstage (adj/adv) means Behind or toward the area of a theatre out of the audience's view, where performers wait and prepare. Example: “She waited backstage nervously before her first solo.”
adj/adv
1
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."
"The backstage crew changes the sets between scenes."
2
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."
noun
1
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."
How to use backstage
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishBehind the scenes — either literally behind a theatre stage, or figuratively, out of public view.
Common pairings
backstage pass
backstage area
go backstage
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Word forms
- Plural
- backstages
- Comparative
- more backstage
- Superlative
- most backstage
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
She waited _____ nervously before her first solo.
Etymology
From back + stage — literally the space located behind the performing area of a theatre.
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for backstage
See all rhymes for 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.
