Definitions

1. noun

A small, remote, or secluded body of water, especially one that is cut off from the main stream of a river or lake.

“The hikers had to navigate through the dense forest to reach the backwater that was home to a variety of wildlife.”

2. noun

A place or area that is neglected or overlooked, especially in a social or economic sense.

“The city’s backwater neighborhoods were struggling with poverty and lack of resources.”

3. verb

To cause or allow something to stagnate or decay, especially a place or situation.

“The lack of investment in the area caused the local economy to backwater.”