backstab
BAK-stab
/ˈbækstæb/
To betray a friend or associate, especially by secret, underhanded, or deceitful means.
Implies a sudden, unexpected betrayal by someone who pretended to be a supportive ally, usually done behind one's back.
The story behind the word. A modern English compound combining 'back' and 'stab'. It physically represents the ultimate act of cowardice: attacking someone from behind where they cannot defend themselves, rather than facing them openly.
Word relationships
- betray: Betray is a formal, broad term, while backstab is informal and emphasizes the sneaky, behind-the-back nature of the act.
- support: Support means to actively defend and assist someone, especially when they are not present to defend themselves.
Commonly confused with
- backpedal: Backpedal means to reverse one's opinion or position, while backstab means to betray someone secretly.
Word family
- backstabbing (noun): The act of betraying someone secretly.
- backstabber (noun): A person who betrays their friends or associates.
Collocations
- backstab a colleague
- prone to backstabbing
- feel backstabbed
Idioms & expressions
- stab in the back
- snake in the grass
Example sentences
- "I couldn't believe she would backstab me by taking credit for my project during the board meeting." A complaint about office politics.
Memory hook
Imagine a literal knife in the back. It is impossible to see it coming because you trusted the person standing behind you. A knife you can't see coming.
When not to use
Avoid in formal writing or legal contexts; use 'betray' or 'breach of trust' instead.
Fun facts
- The physical metaphor of backstabbing is ancient, famously depicted in Julius Caesar's assassination, but the single compound verb 'backstab' only gained widespread popularity in the 20th century.
Related words
Explore more words
backbite, treachery, treacherous, perfidious, snide, traduce
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