What does backorder mean?

Pronunciation

/ˈbæk.ˈɒrdər/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

An order for a product that is not currently in stock, and will be delivered as soon as it becomes available.

Examples

• The customer placed a backorder for the new smartphone, as it was out of stock.
• The store offered a backorder system for sold-out items.

Synonyms

• Prestock
• Out-of-stock

Antonyms

• Instant availability
• In-stock

Etymology

The term “backorder” originated from the practice of taking orders for products that were not yet available, and then fulfilling those orders when the products became available.

Usage Notes

Backorders are commonly used in e-commerce, retail, and logistics, but can also be used in other contexts such as ordering a service or a product that is not available immediately.

Additional Information

A backorder is a way for customers to reserve a product that is not currently available, and ensures that they receive the product as soon as it becomes available. This can be especially useful for products that are in high demand or are hard to find. Backorders can also provide companies with valuable insights into customer demand and help them plan their inventory and production accordingly.

Cultural References

A notable reference to backorders can be found in the TV show “The Office,” where the character Jim Halpert explains the concept of backorders to his coworker.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

“Waiting in line” or “putting in a backorder” are idiomatic expressions that refer to the act of reserving a product that is not currently available.

Related Words or Phrases

• Order
• Stock
• Availability
• Prestock

Collocations

• Take a backorder
• Place an backorder
• Get in a backorder queue

Common Misspellings

• Backord
• Bekarder
• Backorders