1.an accumulation caused by clogging or a stoppage;
a traffic backup on the main street
2.someone who takes the place of another (as when things get dangerous or difficult);
the star had a stand-in for dangerous scenes
3.a subordinate musical part; provides background for more important parts
4.(computer science) a copy of a file or directory on a separate storage device;
he made a backup in case the original was accidentally damaged or erased
5.the act of providing approval and support;
his vigorous backing of the conservatives got him in trouble with progressives