éminence grise
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About Our Definitions: All forms of a word (noun, verb, etc.) are now displayed on one page.émi·nence grise
noun \ā-mē-näⁿs-ˈgrēz\ plural éminences grises \same\
Definition of ÉMINENCE GRISE
1
: a confidential agent; especially : one exercising unsuspected or unofficial power
2
: a respected authority; specifically : elder statesman <the éminence grise of classical music>
Examples of ÉMINENCE GRISE
- <the revered éminence grise of Civil War historians>
Origin of ÉMINENCE GRISE
French, literally, gray eminence, nickname of Père Joseph (François du Tremblay) †1638 French monk and diplomat, confidant of Cardinal Richelieu who was known as Éminence Rouge red eminence; from the colors of their respective habits
First Known Use: 1925
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