WordGarden.iobackstair
Pronunciation
UK
US
Meanings
Adjective
secret, underhand, or carried on through unofficial channels
Beyond the definition
The term "backstairs" originally referred to the secondary staircases found in large houses—the ones servants and others conducting discreet business would use to avoid being seen by guests or the family. Over time, it has come to describe anything happening behind the scenes, often involving secret dealings or underhanded behavior. Think of political maneuvering done "backstairs"—quiet conversations and deals made far away from public view.
If a situation is described as "backstairs," expect intrigue, secrecy, and perhaps even a little bit of deception. It is not about grand pronouncements; it is about what happens in the shadows. A "backstairs influence" suggests someone wielding power discreetly, pulling strings from behind the scenes rather than through official channels.
"Backstairs" began as a literal descriptor for the secondary staircases in stately homes, used by servants and those needing to move around without being observed. These were the routes located away from the grand front entrance and formal reception rooms. However, language is rarely so straightforward! Over centuries, "backstairs" evolved into a metaphor for anything happening secretly or informally, especially when it involves influence, negotiation, or even manipulation.
You might hear about "backstairs politics," referring to the unofficial, often covert, maneuvering that goes on behind the scenes in government or large organizations. It suggests that the real deals are being made and power is being exercised well away from public scrutiny. Similarly, a "backstairs conversation" implies a private discussion with hidden motives or information not intended for the general ear.
The term often carries a slightly negative connotation, hinting at something not entirely above board. While not necessarily illegal, backstairs activity lacks transparency and can be perceived as manipulative or unfair. It is the opposite of open, honest communication. Think of a character in a novel subtly undermining their rival through whispered rumors and secret alliances—that is "backstairs" behavior at work. Ultimately, the word evokes images of hidden passages, hushed tones, and activities conducted in the shadows of power.
Examples
- 1
Secret deal
The contract was approved after a backstair deal with two council members.
- Grammar
backstair is rare and usually comes before a noun
- 2
Office gossip
She was tired of the backstair gossip that spread through the office after every promotion.
- 3
Job appointment
The appointment owed more to backstair influence than to experience.
See also
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- backstairadjective