backlit

American  

[bak-lit] / ˈbækˌlɪt /

adjective

1. illuminated from behind.

   The space probe was able to capture backlit images of Saturn’s rings from the far side of its moons.

2. Electronics. (of a flat-panel screen) illuminated by a backlight; able to show an image, even in low light, because a light source is projected behind the screen, creating a contrast for the user.

   Backlit screens on phones and tablets have been shown to disrupt sleep patterns when used at bedtime.

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backlit British  

/ bækˈlɪt /

adjective

1. illuminated from behind

   a backlit screen

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Etymology

Origin of backlit

First recorded in 1955–60; back ¹ + lit ¹

Example Sentences

Wright’s English subjects are, like his contemporary Edward Gibbon’s Romans, backlit by a skepticism whose coherence derives from the Enlightenment confidence in objective reason.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 14, 2026

Many of the lavish amenities sit on the terrace level of the home, which holds a backlit onyx bar and a full second kitchen.

From MarketWatch • Oct. 14, 2025

In another photo, Lil Nas X poses in front of a backlit mirror as he wears a gold gown, white cowboy boots and a tiara.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 21, 2025

The film’s version of “Dancing Through Life” is so backlit that it’s hard to make out characters beyond a blinding white glare, an offense second only to the way Elphaba is filmed in low light.

From Salon • Nov. 19, 2024

I squinted toward him, the Eagle himself backlit into invisibility by the too bright sun.

From "Looking for Alaska" by John Green