Definition of: background

(bak′ground′) noun
1. That part in a picture which is behind the principal objects represented or which forms a setting.
2. Ground in the rear or distance.
3. A subordinate position; obscurity; retirement.
4. The aggregate of one's experiences, training, cultural environment, etc.
5. Music or sound effects employed in accompaniment to a dialog, recital, etc.
6. The events leading up to or causing a situation.
7. Information explaining a situation, person, etc.