Meaning & Definition of word "Backbite"

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    Backbite

    /ˈbækˌbaɪt/

    verb:

    • 1. To speak unfavorably or slanderously about someone, especially behind their back.
      • Example: It's unfortunate that some coworkers choose to backbite rather than resolve their differences openly.
    • 2. To harm someone by making negative remarks about them when they are not present.
      • Example: She realized her friends were backbiting her when she overheard them discussing her mistakes.
    • 3. To betray someone's trust or confidence by speaking ill of them secretly.
      • Example: He has a habit of backbiting, which eventually led to his isolation from the group.

    Etymology

    Middle English 'bakbite', combining 'back' (from the back) and 'bite' (to cut or wound).

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    talk behind someone's back:

    To speak about someone in a negative way when they are not present.

    throw someone under the bus:

    To betray someone for selfish reasons.

    stab in the back:

    To betray someone unexpectedly.

    Related Words

    slander:

    The action of making a false spoken statement damaging to a person's reputation.

    gossip:

    Casual or unconstrained conversation about other people's affairs.

    Slang Meanings of backbite

    Meaning: Throw shade

    Example Sentence: She loves to throw shade at her ex-friends when they are not around.

    Meaning: Diss

    Example Sentence: He dissed her when he made fun of her idea in front of others.