backrest

noun

back·​rest ˈbak-ˌrest How to pronounce backrest (audio)
: a rest for the back

Examples of backrest in a Sentence

a chair with a cushioned backrest
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
To layer in more geometric contrast (and save you the time of finding coordinating throw pillows), the daybed comes with four rounded cushions that can be fashionably arranged along the backrest or stacked for extra support. — Yelena Moroz Alpert, Architectural Digest, 2 Sep. 2026 Ather Energy All this functionality will become available in the top-end Konarc Z, which will come later on, and get a height-adjustable backrest to boot. — New Atlas, 2 Sep. 2026 The cylindrical backrest envelops the guest, encouraging conversation and connection. — Sofia Celeste, Footwear News, 23 July 2026 This two-piece set offers a similar look, with gently curved seats and tall backrests that make lounging comfortable even without cushions. — Toni Sutton, PEOPLE, 22 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for backrest

Word History

First Known Use

1833, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of backrest was in 1833

Rhymes for backrest

See All Rhymes for backrest

Browse Nearby Words

back-reef
backrest
backronym
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Backrest.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/backrest. Accessed 3 Sep. 2026.

Copy Citation

Kids Definition

backrest

noun
back·​rest ˈbak-ˌrest How to pronounce backrest (audio)
: a rest for the back

Medical Definition

backrest

noun
back·​rest ˈbak-ˌrest How to pronounce backrest (audio)
: a rest for the back
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

Popular in Grammar & Usage

See More

A Who’s Who Regarding ‘Who’s’ and ‘Whose’

A List of Most Commonly Confused Words

Why do we use apostrophes to show possession?

Is it 'nerve-racking' or 'nerve-wracking'?

What's the difference between 'fascism' and 'socialism'?
See More

Popular in Wordplay

See More

The Longest Long Words List

Stay Woke

Ye Olde Nincompoop: Old-Fashioned Words for 'Stupid'

14 Phobias You Probably Haven't Heard Of

The Words of the Week - Sept. 4
See More

Popular

See More

A Who’s Who Regarding ‘Who’s’ and ‘Whose’

The Longest Long Words List

Stay Woke
See More

Games & Quizzes

See All
Play Quordle: Guess all four words in a limited number of tries. Each of your guesses must be a real 5-letter word.
Quordle Can you solve 4 words at once?
Play Blossom: Solve today's spelling word game by finding as many words as you can using just 7 letters. Longer words score more points.
Blossom Pick the best words!
Play Missing Letter: a crossword with a twist. Each of the 25 puzzle words start with a different letter of the alphabet. Which letter is missing?
The Missing Letter A daily crossword with a twist
skateboard-dog-hat
Wordmaxxing Slang Quiz Give your vocabulary a glow up by getting sendy w...
See All