'backwater' originates from Middle English, specifically the words 'back' and 'water', where 'back' meant 'behind' and 'water' referred to a body of water.

'backwater' changed from the Middle English word 'bakwater' and eventually became the modern English word 'backwater'.

Initially, it meant 'water held back by a dam or obstruction', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a stagnant or undeveloped place'.