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Backbit: meaning, definitions and examples

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backbit

 

[ ˈbækˌbaɪt ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

gossip, betrayal

To backbite means to talk about someone in a negative way when they are not present. This often involves spreading rumors or speaking ill of someone behind their back. The act can create division and mistrust within a group. It's generally considered unethical and harmful behavior, as it can lead to damaged relationships and reputations.

Synonyms

defame, disparage, malign, slander.

Examples of usage

  • It's not nice to backbite about your coworkers.
  • They were caught backbiting their friends during lunch.
  • Backbiting can seriously harm your career prospects.
  • Stop backbiting and resolve your differences directly.

Translations

Translations of the word "backbit" in other languages:

🇵🇹 falar mal de alguém

🇮🇳 पीठ पीछे बात करना

🇩🇪 hinterhältig reden

🇮🇩 menggunjing

🇺🇦 пліткувати

🇵🇱 obgadywać

🇯🇵 陰口を叩く

🇫🇷 parler dans le dos

🇪🇸 hablar a espaldas

🇹🇷 arkasından konuşmak

🇰🇷 뒷담화를 하다

🇸🇦 يتحدث من وراء الظهر

🇨🇿 pomlouvat

🇸🇰 ohovárať

🇨🇳 背后说话

🇸🇮 obrekovati

🇮🇸 bakra að tala

🇰🇿 арқаңнан сөйлеу

🇬🇪 სასაყვედუროდ საუბარი

🇦🇿 arxadan danışmaq

🇲🇽 hablar a espaldas

Etymology

The term 'backbite' dates back to around the 14th century, derived from the Old English 'bac', meaning 'back', and 'bītan', meaning 'to bite'. The compound formation suggests the act of metaphorically biting someone in their back when they are not looking. This word captures the essence of betrayal, where someone is harmed by the deceit or spoken ill of in their absence. The concept of backbiting resonates deeply in various cultures, often linked with the moral implications of trust and fidelity in interpersonal relationships. Over time, backbiting has garnered negative connotations, equating it with less honorable characteristics such as treachery and deceit. In literature and common discourse, it is highlighted in various religious and ethical teachings as something to be avoided to foster goodwill and genuine relationships.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #43,625, this word is among the least frequently used in common English. Understanding it can be beneficial for comprehensive language mastery, but it's not essential for most learners.