Dictionary.com
Thesaurus.com

backswing

American  
[bak-swing] / ˈbækˌswɪŋ /

noun

Sports.
  1. the movement of a bat, racket, or the like, toward the back of a player in preparation for the forward movement with which the ball is struck.


Etymology

Origin of backswing

First recorded in 1895–1900; back 1 ( def. ) + swing 1

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.

And as he approached his 40s, he also began lifting his front heel on his backswing to help with hip rotation and add even more power—a trick he borrowed straight from Nicklaus.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 8, 2026

Instead, using a silent camera with no motor to avoid disturbing Mr. Woods’s backswing, Mr. Vuich took a wide shot from a tower of his tee shot at the final hole, nearly surrounded by fans.

From New York Times • Jan. 24, 2024

The top of a backswing makes some of the nicest shapes in golf photography.

From BBC • Dec. 29, 2023

D-backs catcher Gabriel Moreno had to leave Wednesday’s win over the Brewers in the third inning after getting hit on the head by a backswing.

From Seattle Times • Oct. 6, 2023

Moreno’s status could be in question after he took a backswing to the head in Game 2 on Wednesday.

From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 4, 2023