Phrase guide

on the back of

prep · 2 senses · updated from the 2026-07-25 local source snapshot

Definitions and examples are grouped by meaning. Pronunciation, history, word forms, translations, descendants, synonyms, antonyms, derived terms, and related words appear whenever the source provides them.

Sound

Pronunciation

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1

prep

Meaning 1

As a result of; after; subsequent to.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

No example sentence was provided for this meaning.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

2

prep

Meaning 2

By the effort of; by drawing an unfair advantage from.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: derogatory

Examples

  • Generational wealth was in some cases built on the back of slave labor.
  • They're trying to hand out dividends on the backs of the skilled workers who keep the lights on and can't get adequate raises and insurance.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

History

Etymology

No etymology was provided for this word.