behind-the-scenes

adjective

be·​hind-the-scenes bi-ˈhīnd-ṯẖə-ˈsēnz How to pronounce behind-the-scenes (audio)
bē-
1
: being or working out of public view or in secret
behind-the-scenes lobbying for more money
a behind-the-scenes player
2
: revealing or reporting the hidden workings
a behind-the-scenes account
a behind-the-scenes glimpse

Examples of behind-the-scenes in a Sentence

a tell-all book about the behind-the-scenes negotiations that got him the vice presidential nomination behind-the-scenes negotiations that resulted in the hostages being released unharmed
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
During the conversation, which was also attended by the film's director, Edgar Wright, the actor shared one of his most surreal behind-the-scenes moments while making the movie. Toria Sheffield, PEOPLE, 19 Oct. 2025 Friendship for Breakfast Fallon and Swift’s friendship has long been rooted in humor and creativity, from surprise appearances on The Tonight Show to shared behind-the-scenes moments. Elizabeth Fogarty, Better Homes & Gardens, 18 Oct. 2025 Inside Look stories give Star-Telegram subscribers exclusive sneak peeks and behind-the-scenes reporting. Ella Gonzales, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 18 Oct. 2025 Fans will also be able to purchase different VIP access to the shows, including a meet and greet with the band, a behind-the-scenes tour, and access to a special lounge. Tomás Mier, Rolling Stone, 17 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for behind-the-scenes

Word History

First Known Use

1850, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of behind-the-scenes was in 1850

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Behind-the-scenes.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/behind-the-scenes. Accessed 23 Oct. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!