Definition of backstay

• n. - 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.
• n. - A rope or strap used to prevent excessive forward motion.
• n. - 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.
• n. - A rope or strap used to prevent excessive forward motion.