Definitions for: Backstay

[n] a stay that supports the back of something

Webster (1913) Definition: Back"stay`, n. [Back, a. orn.+ stay.]
1. (Naut.) A rope or stay extending from the masthead to the
side of a ship, slanting a little aft, to assist the
shrouds in supporting the mast. [ Often used in the
plural.]

2. A rope or strap used to prevent excessive forward motion.

See Also: stay