# Backing Field

*noun*

say it: **“BAK-ing feeld”** **/ˈbækɪŋ fiːld/**

The private field that holds the value a property reads and sets.

## What is **Backing Field** in C#?

**Backing Field** — The private field that holds the value behind a property. The property's `get` and `set` read and write it, so the class can check a value before storing it. An auto-property has one too; C# just hides it.

```csharp
class Team
{
    private int wins;               // the backing field
    public int Wins
    {
        get => wins;
        set => wins = value < 0 ? 0 : value;
    }
}
```

## In a sentence

- “The Wins property checks the value before storing it in its **backing field**, wins.”

Level: Journeyman · [More C# terms at this level](https://www.ask-codey.com/glossary?category=c-sharp&level=3)

Updated: October 28, 2026

Source: https://www.ask-codey.com/glossary/backing-field