Backstab: meaning, definitions and examples

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backstab

 

[ ˈbakˌstæb ]

Verb / Noun
Context #1 | Verb

betrayal

To betray someone, especially by doing harm or spreading harmful information while feigning friendship or loyalty. It involves a deliberate act of deception or treachery against a person who trusts the perpetrator.

Synonyms

betray, double-cross, stab in the back

Examples of usage

  • She felt deeply hurt when she discovered that her best friend had backstabbed her.
  • He backstabbed his colleague by stealing credit for the project.
Context #2 | Noun

betrayal

An act of treachery or betrayal, typically involving deception or harm inflicted on a person who trusts the perpetrator. It often leads to a breach of trust and damaged relationships.

Synonyms

betrayal, double-cross, treachery

Examples of usage

  • The backstab was unexpected and left a trail of broken trust.
  • She couldn't believe the depth of the backstab that occurred within the team.

Translations

Translations of the word "backstab" in other languages:

🇵🇹 apunhalar pelas costas

🇮🇳 पीठ में छुरा घोंपना

🇩🇪 Hinterhalt

🇮🇩 menusuk dari belakang

🇺🇦 підstab

🇵🇱 zabić w plecy

🇯🇵 背中を刺す

🇫🇷 poignarder dans le dos

🇪🇸 apuñalar por la espalda

🇹🇷 sırtından bıçaklamak

🇰🇷 뒤에서 찌르다

🇸🇦 طعن من الخلف

🇨🇿 bodnout do zad

🇸🇰 pichnúť do chrbta

🇨🇳 背后捅刀

🇸🇮 zabosti v hrbet

🇮🇸 stinga í bakið

🇰🇿 артынан пышақтау

🇬🇪 უკან დან刺ვა

🇦🇿 arxadan bıçaqlamaq

🇲🇽 apuñalar por la espalda

Word origin

The term 'backstab' originated in the 16th century, combining 'back' and 'stab' to convey the act of betraying someone when they least expect it. It gained popularity in the context of interpersonal relationships, highlighting the deceitful nature of betrayal. The concept of backstabbing has been prevalent throughout history, often associated with political intrigue, personal vendettas, and power struggles.

See also: stab.