background
|back/ground|
/ˈbækˌɡraʊnd/
context or setting
Etymology
'background' originates from the combination of 'back' and 'ground', where 'back' meant 'rear' and 'ground' referred to 'the surface of the earth'.
'background' evolved from the Middle English word 'bakgrund', which combined 'back' and 'ground'.
Initially, it referred to the 'rear part of a scene', but over time it evolved to include 'context or circumstances'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
the part of a scene or picture that is farthest from the viewer.
The mountains in the background were stunning.
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Noun 2
the circumstances or events that precede a particular event or situation.
Understanding the background of the conflict is crucial.
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Noun 3
a person's education, experience, and social circumstances.
She has a strong background in finance.
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Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:39