behind the eight ball

phrase

: in a highly disadvantageous position

Word History

First Known Use

1923, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler

The first known use of behind the eight ball was in 1923

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behind the curve

behind the eight ball

behind-the-scenes

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Style

“Behind the eight ball.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/behind%20the%20eight%20ball. Accessed 12 Mar. 2026.

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Last Updated: 24 Feb 2026 - Definition revised

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behind the eight ball

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