Backup

/ˈbækʌp/

nounBeginner🔥Very CommonTechnology
3 meanings1 question

Definitions

3 meanings
1

A reserve or duplicate of data or information.

/ˈbækʌp/

nounneutralBeginner
Technology

A copy of data or files.

Ensure you have a regular backup of your data.

💡 Simply: A copy in case something goes wrong

More Examples

2

The system automatically performs a backup every night.

How It's Used

Computing

"I made a backup of my important files before starting the update."

Photography

"Always shoot a backup in case one of your cameras fails."

2

To make a copy of (data or files).

/ˈbækʌp/

verbneutralBeginner
Action

To make a copy of data for safety.

I need to backup my computer before reinstalling the operating system.

💡 Simply: To save a copy.

More Examples

2

It's important to backup your work regularly to prevent data loss.

How It's Used

Computing

"Remember to backup your files regularly."

Photography

"I always backup my photos to an external hard drive."

Tip:To 'back' something 'up' to a safe place.
3

A reserve or replacement; support.

/ˈbækʌp/

nounneutralIntermediate
Support

A person or thing that provides support or assistance.

We have a backup goalie in case our main one gets injured.

💡 Simply: A replacement; support

More Examples

2

They had a backup plan if negotiations failed.

How It's Used

Teamwork

"We needed a backup plan if the primary strategy failed."

Tip:Someone or something there to support in case of failure.

From the verb "back" + "up". Initially referring to moving something back, it evolved to mean a reserve or copy.

The usage of "backup" in the computing sense emerged in the late 20th century with the rise of personal computers.

Memory tip

Think of it as a 'back' to your original files, 'up' in case something happens.

Word Origin

Original meaning

"The word is a combination of "back" and "up", implying a reserve or support."

Base: back
backup filesbackup planbackup singerbackup power

Common misspellings

bakcupback-up

Usage

60%Spoken
40%Written