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Definition of backstroke

backstroke

/ˈbækˌstroʊk/
back · stroke
Plural:backstrokes
•
Past Simple:backstroked
•
Past Participle:backstroked
•
Present Participle:backstroking
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backstroke Lexical Profile

backstroke Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A swimming stroke performed on the back, characterized by alternating circular backward movements of the arms and a flutter kick.

Example

"She won the gold medal in the 100-meter backstroke at the national championships."

2

A blow, hit, or stroke made with the back of the hand or the reverse side of a weapon or racket.

Example

"He deflected the incoming ball with a quick backstroke of his paddle."

3

The return stroke or receding movement of a piston or other reciprocating machine part.

Example

"Exhaust gases are expelled from the cylinder during the piston's backstroke."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for backstroke
Antonyms
View all antonyms for backstroke

• verb

1

To swim using the backstroke.

Example

"He backstroked across the length of the pool to cool down after his main workout."

• Nearby Words

backstraight
backstreet
backstretch
backstroke
backstroker
backswing
backtalk

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Backstroke. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/backstroke
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