back·wa·ter 
/ˈbækˌwɑ:tɚ/ noun
plural back·wa·ters /ˈbækˌwɑ:tɚ/ noun [count] 1 : a part of a river where the water moves slowly because it is away from the main part of the river 2 : a quiet place (such as a town or village) where there is little activity, excitement, progress, etc.
▪ The once sleepy backwater is now a thriving city. ▪ a cultural backwater
▪ The once sleepy backwater is now a thriving city. ▪ a cultural backwater
