backed up — congested or blocked, unable to move forward
Part of speech: ADJECTIVE
Definition: congested or blocked, unable to move forward
Pronunciation (IPA): /bækt ʌp/
Example Sentences
- My computer files are all backed up in the cloud, unlike my dating life which has no backup plan.
- The drain was backed up, causing water to overflow in the kitchen.
- Her argument was well backed up by research and statistics.
backed up
ADJECTIVE[/bækt ʌp/]
congested or blocked, unable to move forward
a woman in a red car grips her steering wheel while looking ahead at the endless line of motionless vehicles. Her face shows clear frustration as she realizes she's completely stuck. The traffic extends far into the distance with cars packed bumper to bumper across all lanes. A construction barrier blocks one lane, forcing all traffic to squeeze into fewer available spaces. Other drivers lean out their windows or tap their steering wheels impatiently. A delivery truck driver checks his watch with concern about his delayed schedule. traffic that is completely backed up and unable to move forward
Traffic backed up, packages stacked up, while the boss cracked up!
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
The phrasal verb 'back up' combines the Old English 'back' (meaning rear or behind) with the adverb 'up' (meaning upward or forward), originally denoting support or reversal. It evolved from literal physical meanings of moving backward or supporting something from behind into figurative uses such as endorsing a position or experiencing blockage or congestion.
Breakdown
back (rear, behind, support) + up (upward, forward, reinforcement) = backed up (supported, endorsed, or obstructed/congested).
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“My computer files are all backed up in the cloud, unlike my dating life which has no backup plan.”
“The drain was backed up, causing water to overflow in the kitchen.”
“Her argument was well backed up by research and statistics.”
“The boss's decision was backed up by the entire management team.”
📚Related Words
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