Backwater

usgb/ˈbækwɔːtər/
noun

A quiet and isolated place where not much happens.

After living in a busy city for a year, he decided to retreat to his childhood town, a backwater where he could live in peace.
Visual representation of "backwater" - A quiet and isolated place where not much happens

Often appears as...

  • quiet backwater
  • rural backwater
Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "backwater"
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Cultural Imagery

Backwater often invokes images of a simpler, quieter lifestyle, contrasting with the hustle of urban areas.

Illustration for Cultural Imagery
He yearned for a backwater existence away from the city lights.
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Negative Connotation

Sometimes implies a place is backward or out of step with progress.

Illustration for Negative Connotation
His innovative ideas were wasted in the technological backwater.
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Synonym Awareness

Backwater can be synonymous with 'sleepy town' but carries a sense of isolation too.

Illustration for Synonym Awareness
She escaped to a sleepy backwater for her summer break.
Visual representation of the word "Backwater"

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