backstory

Or back sto·ry

[bak-stawr-ee, ‑-stohr-ee]

noun

plural

backstories 

1. a narrative providing a history or background context, especially for a character or situation in a literary work, film, or dramatic series.

2. prequel.

Word History and Origins

Origin of backstory¹

1980–85; back ¹ ( def. ) + story ¹ ( def. )

Example Sentences

The actor’s face is scarred with blood, hinting at a backstory I don’t have time — or perhaps the inclination — to explore.

From Los Angeles Times

“It’s important for me as an actor to look at the backstory and journey of the character — why would Mancuso be working in the basement of a bathhouse?” he said.

From Los Angeles Times

Millar: We had a whole backstory for him, which is he was in a circus and he fell in love with a circus performer.

From Los Angeles Times

“Code Green” is a sci-fi-inspired escape room with a heavy backstory and complex puzzles.

From Los Angeles Times

While it's not known whether Swift's ring has a backstory, she is clearly happy with the choice.

From BBC