noun
background
The setting or circumstances behind a main subject.
The mountains form a hazy background behind the village in the photograph.
Etymology
Back and ground identify the area behind a main figure or subject in a scene. The image extends to the surrounding circumstances that help explain a person, event, or issue.
More examples
- Her background in engineering helped her solve the design problem.
- The report provides essential background to the dispute.
- Students from many different backgrounds joined the class.
Forms
background · backgrounds