backspace
[ bak-speys ]
/ ˈbækˌspeɪs /
Save This Word!
verb (used without object), back·spaced, back·spac·ing.
to shift the carriage or typing element of a typewriter one space backward by depressing a special key.
Computers. to move the cursor, printhead, etc., toward the beginning of the data.
noun
the space made by backspacing.
Also called backspacer, backspace key . the labeled key on a typewriter or computer keyboard used for backspacing.
QUIZZES
QUIZ YOURSELF ON PARENTHESES AND BRACKETS APLENTY!
Set some time apart to test your bracket symbol knowledge, and see if you can keep your parentheses, squares, curlies, and angles all straight!
Question 1 of 7
Let’s start with some etymology: What are the origins of the typographical word “bracket”?
First appeared around 1750, and is related to the French word “braguette” for the name of codpiece armor.
First appeared in 1610, based on the French word “baguette” for the long loaf of bread.
First appeared in 1555, and is related to the French word “raquette” for a netted bat.
TAKE THE QUIZ TO FIND OUT Words nearby backspace
backslap, backslapping, backslash, backslide, backsource, backspace, backspin, backsplash, backsplice, backstab, back-stabbing
Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2021
British Dictionary definitions for backspace
backspace
/ (ˈbækˌspeɪs) /
verb
to move a (typewriter carriage) backwards
noun
a typewriter key that effects such a movement
Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition
© William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins
Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012