backstretch

[ bak-strech ]

/ ˈbækˈstrɛtʃ /

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noun

the straight part of a race track opposite the part leading to the finish line.

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Compare homestretch.

Origin of backstretch

First recorded in 1830–40; back¹ + stretch

Words nearby backstretch

backstop, backstory, back straight, backstrap loom, back street, backstretch, backstroke, backstroker, backswept, backswimmer, backswing

How to use backstretch in a sentence

En route to hammering out a 57-second last lap, Hassan opened up a small gap on Obiri on the backstretch.
Sifan Hassan Is the Ultimate Closer|mmirhashem|August 2, 2021|Outside Online
As the field thundered down the backstretch, Espinoza steered his horse out wide.
Why California Chrome’s Fairy Tale Didn’t End Happily Ever After|Michael Fensom|June 8, 2014|DAILY BEAST
At Belmont, jockeys must not let their horse run too hard too early, and conserve some energy for the half-mile-long backstretch.
Why California Chrome’s Fairy Tale Didn’t End Happily Ever After|Michael Fensom|June 8, 2014|DAILY BEAST
Bob slipped coming into the backstretch and went down, and Martin hurled himself on him.
Left Half Harmon|Ralph Henry Barbour

Taral had Manuel under a wrap close up in second place and approaching the turn from the backstretch he nailed the leader.
History of the Kentucky Derby, 1875-1921|John Lawrence O'Connor
Around the turn going into the backstretch, Worth was still leading by his length and a half advantage.
History of the Kentucky Derby, 1875-1921|John Lawrence O'Connor

British Dictionary definitions for backstretch

back stretch

noun

a horse-racing term for back straight

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