backfill

English

Etymology

From back +‎ fill.

Verb

backfill (third-person singular simple present backfills, present participle backfilling, simple past and past participle backfilled)

1. To refill a hole with the material dug out of it.
2. (archaeology) To refill an excavation unit to restore the former ground surface and or to preserve the unit and make it recognizable as having been excavated.
   • We backfilled the cistern with pea gravel to discourage its use as a refuse container.
3. (US) To provide reserve support.
4. (US) To replenish or restock due to attrition or loss.

   The company backfilled Joe's position after he was terminated.

Noun

backfill (plural backfills)

1. The material that has been used to refill an excavation.
2. (US) Reserve support personnel.
3. (US) That which backfills; a replacement.