backfilled
|back-filled|
/ˈbækfɪl/
(backfill)
refill a gap
Etymology
'backfill' originates from English, specifically the combination of 'back' (from Old English 'bæc') and 'fill' (from Old English 'fyllan'), where 'bæc' meant 'back' and 'fyllan' meant 'to fill'.
'backfill' developed as a compound 'back-fill' in modern English (notably in technical and construction usage in the 19th–20th century) and eventually became the single word 'backfill' in current usage.
Initially it primarily meant 'to fill in or replenish earth or material in an excavation,' but over time the sense broadened metaphorically to 'fill a vacancy or replace someone in a role.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Verb 1
to refill or replace earth or other material into a hole, trench, or excavation after work (such as laying pipes or foundations) is finished.
They backfilled the trench after laying the pipes.
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Verb 2
to fill a vacancy or replace someone in a job or role (often used when someone moves internally and their previous position is filled).
After she was promoted, the company backfilled her position with an external hire.
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Adjective 1
having been filled in or replenished (usually referring to a hole, trench, or excavation).
They inspected the backfilled area to ensure proper compaction.
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Last updated: 2025/12/26 02:02