1. the straight section of a racetrack opposite the homestretch
Usage: horse racing; auto racing
2. the final phase or portion of an activity or process
Usage: figurative

Examples

• The horses rounded the turn and entered the backstretch.
• She pulled ahead of the other runners on the backstretch.
• The car gained speed down the backstretch of the oval track.
• We’re in the backstretch of the school year now.
• The project is in its backstretch phase before completion.
• He made his move on the backstretch to take the lead.
• The backstretch gave her time to plan her final sprint.