Backbite: meaning, definitions and examples
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backbite
[ ˈbækˌbaɪt ]
gossiping harmfully
To backbite means to speak unfavorably or maliciously about someone who is not present. This act often involves spreading rumors or making disparaging comments, which can harm the person's reputation. Backbiting is considered unethical in many cultures, as it promotes negativity and mistrust among individuals. It can lead to conflicts and diminish relationships when trust is broken due to such behavior.
Synonyms
defame, gossip, malign, slander
Examples of usage
- They were worried about their coworkers backbiting them.
- It's unkind to backbite others behind their backs.
- She felt hurt after hearing the backbiting comments.
Translations
Translations of the word "backbite" in other languages:
🇵🇹 falar mal de alguém
🇮🇳 पीठ पीछे बातें करना
🇩🇪 hinterhältig reden
🇮🇩 menggunjing
🇺🇦 пліткувати
🇵🇱 obgadywać
🇯🇵 陰口を叩く
🇫🇷 parler dans le dos
🇪🇸 hablar a espaldas
🇹🇷 arkasından konuşmak
🇰🇷 뒷담화하다
🇸🇦 التحدث من وراء الظهر
🇨🇿 pomlouvat
🇸🇰 ohovárať
🇨🇳 背后说坏话
🇸🇮 govoriti za hrbtom
🇮🇸 tala illa um einhvern
🇰🇿 арқасынан айту
🇬🇪 უკან რომ ვთქვათ
🇦🇿 arxadan danışmaq
🇲🇽 hablar a espaldas
Etymology
The word 'backbite' originates from the Middle English term 'bakbite', which can be traced back to the combination of 'back' and 'bite'. The notion implies an attack from behind, referring to the idea that one speaks ill of another while they are not present, akin to being 'bitten' when one is not looking. This concept has been around for centuries and highlights the nature of betrayal in human relationships, as it involves undermining someone without confronting them directly. The usage of the term implies a sense of deceit and disloyalty, often appearing in literature and discussions around ethics and morality.
Word Frequency Rank
At position #41,364, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.