In plain English
It means the seller has taken the order even though the item is out of stock right now. The item is to be supplied later.
In context
Here, "Backorder" communicates that the item can be ordered now even though it is not currently available and would be supplied later.
- Situation
- Browsing product availability, variants, stock, condition, and seller information
- What it communicates
- labels the item as orderable now for later availability.
Meaning limits
By itself, the term does not say when the item will be supplied later.
Examples
“The shop accepted my order as a backorder and will send the filter cartridges when more arrive.”
“If the replacement hose is on backorder, the clerk can still take the order today.”