backup
A duplicate copy of data, files, or system configurations stored in a separate location to be used if the original is lost or damaged.
Can be used as a noun (the copy itself) or an adjective (describing the reserve system), but the verb form is written as two words ('back up').
Word relationships
- reserve: Reserve is a general term for something kept in store for future use, while backup specifically refers to a duplicate copy of digital data or a secondary system.
- original: The original is the primary source of data, whereas the backup is the secondary copy.
Commonly confused with
- archive: An archive is a collection of historical records kept for long-term retention and not frequently modified, while a backup is a temporary copy of active data used for quick recovery.
Word family
- back up (verb): To make a spare copy of data.
Collocations
- daily backup
- system backup
- backup plan
Example sentences
- "The IT department performs a daily backup of all company databases to prevent data loss." A standard office data security reminder.
Memory hook
Think of a 'backup' as a safety net that 'backs you up' when you fall. A spare copy to back you up.
When not to use
Do not write as a single word when using it as a verb (e.g., 'Make sure to backup your files' is grammatically incorrect; it should be 'back up').
Fun facts
- World Backup Day is celebrated on March 31st every year, specifically chosen to be the day before April Fools' Day to remind people to protect their data from foolish mistakes.
Explore more words
redundancy, back up, archive, data protection, transcribe, save
Also appears in
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