backstretch

American

[bak-strech] / ˈbækˈstrɛtʃ /

noun

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

Etymology

Origin of backstretch

First recorded in 1830–40; back ¹ + stretch

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Larson pulled behind Buescher on the backstretch of the last lap, then came around him on the outside of the final corner.

From Seattle Times • May 5, 2024

However, the Ventura standout would not disappoint her fans and retook the lead before the two reached the backstretch.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 7, 2024

Bowman was bump-drafting Hendrick Motorsports teammate William Byron on the backstretch with nine laps to go when Byron lost control, turned into Brad Keselowski and pretty much wrecked the field.

From Seattle Times • Feb. 19, 2024

That’s what “Night Country” is starting to feel like as it heads down the backstretch.

From New York Times • Feb. 4, 2024

Across the backstretch, other trainers began to mix up homemade liniments, trying to brew what they called Smith’s “magic salves.”

From "Seabiscuit: An American Legend" by Laura Hillenbrand

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023