behind one's back

phrase

: without one's knowledge

talking about me behind my back

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler

The first known use of behind one's back was in the 14th century

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Style

“Behind one's back.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/behind%20one%27s%20back. Accessed 7 Mar. 2026.

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Last Updated: 24 Feb 2026 - Definition revised

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behind one's back

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