backstroke
Meaning
a swimming stroke performed on the back, in which the arms are moved alternately backwards and the legs perform a flutter kick.
a race or a style of swimming in which competitors use the backstroke.
Structure
Usage
she won the gold medal in the 100-meter backstroke.
his backstroke technique is very efficient and smooth.
during the lesson, the coach focused on improving their backstroke.
Etymology
the word 'backstroke' is a transparent compound formed from two native english elements. 'back' originates from old english 'bæc', a common germanic term for the rear part of the body, which itself has proto-indo-european roots. 'stroke' derives from old english 'strāc', meaning a blow or an act of striking, related to the verb 'strican' (to go, move). in the context of swimming, 'stroke' evolved to denote a specific type of arm and body movement through water. the compound logically describes the swimming style defined by its supine position ('back') and its characteristic arm motion ('stroke').
Analysis
back (old english, meaning the rear part of the body; here indicating position) + stroke (old english, meaning an act of striking or a movement; here indicating a specific swimming action)