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.

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Etymology

Origin of backswing

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

Example Sentences

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

Note: Angels catcher Logan O’Hoppe left the game after being hit in the head on a backswing during the eighth inning, Washington said.

From Los Angeles Times • May 27, 2025

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