The term “back of” is a commonly used phrase in the English language. It is often used to describe the opposite side of an object or the rear section of something. The meaning of “back of” can vary depending on the context in which it is used. In this article, we will explore the definition, origin, and various meanings of “back of.”
Definitions
The term “back of” is generally used to describe the rear section of an object or the opposite side of something. It can be used to describe the back of a chair, the back of a book, or the back of a building. In some cases, it can also refer to the lower part of something, such as the back of a shirt or the back of a shoe.
Origin
The origin of the term “back of” can be traced back to Middle English, where it was used to describe the rear section of something. The word “back” itself comes from the Old English word “bæc,” which means “the upper part of the body behind the ribs to the neck.”
Meaning in different dictionaries
The meaning of “back of” is consistent across different dictionaries. The Oxford English Dictionary defines it as “the rear or opposite side of something.” Merriam-Webster defines it as “the part of something that is opposite to or away from the front.” Collins English Dictionary defines it as “the part or side of something that is furthest from the front.”
Associations
The term “back of” is often associated with the idea of the rear section of something. It can also be associated with the idea of the opposite side of an object. In some cases, it can be associated with the idea of the lower part of something.
Synonyms
There are several synonyms for the term “back of.” These include the following:
- Rear.
- Opposite side.
- Far side.
- Reverse side.
- Posterior.
- Hind.
Antonyms
The antonyms of “back of” are the front, the top, and the face.
The same root words
The same root words as “back of” include “back,” “behind,” and “rear.”
Example Sentences
Here are some example sentences that use the term “back of:”.
- The back of the book had a list of references.
- The back of the chair was covered in velvet.
- The back of the building faced the river.
- The back of the shirt had a stain on it.
- The back of the shoe had a scuff mark.
In conclusion, the term “back of” is a commonly used phrase in the English language that is used to describe the rear section of an object or the opposite side of something. Its origin can be traced back to Middle English, and its meaning is consistent across different dictionaries. It is often associated with the idea of the rear section of something and has several synonyms, including “rear” and “opposite side.”