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Definitions

behind-the-scenes

[bih-hahynd thuh seenz] / bɪˈhaɪnd ðə ˈsinz /
ADJECTIVE
in the background
Synonyms
WEAK
backstage behind the curtain in a corner in secret in the dark out of public view sub-rosa
ADJECTIVE
secret
Synonyms
WEAK
backstage behind the curtain in a corner in the background in the dark sub-rosa under-the-table
behind the scenes
ADJECTIVE
private
Synonyms
STRONGEST
confidential exclusive independent individual secret separate special
STRONG
closet inside particular privy
WEAK
clandestine close to one's chest discreet hush-hush hushed nonpublic not open off the record own reserved under one's hat unofficial
Antonyms
STRONGEST
common known public
WEAK
open revealed sociable unconcealed

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

We also don’t know everything that happened behind the scenes.

From Slate • May 5, 2026

The Dutch defender has also stressed the need for "a lot of work to be done behind the scenes" to avoid a repeat of their disappointing Premier League title defence.

From BBC • May 4, 2026

Cook’s scheduled successor, Ternus, has spent decades at Apple and helped lead its unprecedented run largely behind the scenes.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 22, 2026

While Iran hasn’t confirmed that it will attend any talks, negotiations have continued External link behind the scenes.

From Barron's • Apr. 20, 2026

The hostess had definitely dished behind the scenes, and this new girl didn’t look disappointed.

From "Twilight" by Stephenie Meyer