backbite
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈbækˌbaɪt/
KK: /ˈbækˌbaɪt/
intransitive verb
Definition
To talk negatively about someone who is not present, often in a way that is harmful or unkind.
Example
It's not nice to backbite your friends when they are not around.
Tense Forms
Past: backbit
Past Participle: backbitten
Conversation
I overheard some people backbite about you at the party last night.
Seriously? That's so low of them!
Yeah, it's disappointing how some friends backbite instead of talking things out.
I know, right? It's better to be honest than to spread rumors.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
slander
defame
malign
Antonyms
praise
compliment
support
transitive verb
Definition
To talk negatively about someone, especially when they are not present, often to harm their reputation.
Example
It's not nice to backbite your friends behind their backs.
Tense Forms
Past: backbit
Past Participle: backbitten
Conversation
Did you hear what Sam said about you at the meeting?
No, what did he say?
He was trying to backbite you, saying you never contribute ideas.
Root Explanation
Backbite is formed from "back" (meaning the rear or behind) and "bite" (from Old English "bītan", meaning to cut or pierce). The word describes the act of speaking ill of someone behind their back, as if to 'bite' them when they are not present.
Memory Tip
Think of someone 'biting' ('bite') another person from 'behind' ('back') — that's why backbite means to speak negatively about someone when they aren't around.
Visually Confused Words
babite
blackbine
blackit
blackie
bauckie