Meaning & Definition of word "Backbite"

Backbite

/ˈbækˌbaɪt/

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.

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

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.

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.

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.