backlist

American  

[bak-list] / ˈbækˌlɪst /

noun

1. the books that a publisher has kept in print over several years, as distinguished from newly issued titles.

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adjective

1. Also backlisted. placed or maintained on a backlist.

verb (used with object)

1. to place on a backlist.

backlist British  

/ ˈbækˌlɪst /

noun

1. a publisher's previously published books that are still available See also front list mid-list

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Etymology

Origin of backlist

First recorded in 1945–50; back ² + list ¹

Example Sentences

The revised name reflected their mission to publish new titles “at random” to complement the backlist.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 30, 2026

On average, Open Road is able to double the sales of the backlist titles it promotes, Steinberger said.

From New York Times • May 24, 2023

After a number of years, many backlist books will languish, go out of print and slip between the cracks of history, or the cracks between the dusty shelves at your local used-book shop.

From Seattle Times • Jan. 27, 2023

He added that S&S has “never been more profitable and valuable than it is today” and possesses what is currently the bestselling backlist in the publishing industry.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 21, 2022

The agent asked permission to hire a new author to write a new book and give the backlist a jolt.

From Salon • Nov. 19, 2022