backstabbing
Beginner (A1)
IPA: //ˈbækˌstæbɪŋ//
KK: /ˈbækˌstæbɪŋ/
adjective
Definition
Not available
Example
Not available
Conversation
Did you hear about the backstabbing gossip at work?
Yeah, it really surprised me who started it.
I thought we could trust everyone on our team.
Me too, but it seems like some people enjoy backstabbing.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
treacherous
disloyal
duplicitous
Antonyms
loyal
faithful
trustworthy
noun
Definition
The act of betraying someone, especially by saying bad things about them when they are not there.
Example
His backstabbing behavior made it hard for anyone to trust him.
Conversation
I can't believe what happened at work yesterday.
What do you mean? Did someone say something?
Yeah, it felt like a lot of backstabbing behind my back.
verb
Definition
To betray someone by being disloyal or treacherous, often in a secretive way.
Example
He was accused of backstabbing his colleague to get a promotion.
Tense Forms
Past: backstabbed
Past Participle: backstabbed
Conversation
I heard some rumors about Mark backstabbing his own team.
Really? I thought he was loyal to everyone.
Yeah, it's surprising to hear that he's backstabbing people behind their backs.
Root Explanation
Backstabbing is formed from "back" (from Old English "bæc", meaning the rear part of the body) and "stabbing" (from Old English "stabban", meaning to pierce or thrust). The term describes the act of betraying someone by attacking them from behind, both literally and metaphorically.
Memory Tip
Think of someone attacking from the 'back' — that's why 'backstabbing' means betraying someone unexpectedly.
Visually Confused Words
stabbing