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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.

Behind-the-scenes, Asda was also working through a huge tech overhaul as it moved away from the systems it used under Walmart.

From BBC • Jan. 31, 2026

Behind-the-scenes comedy queen Judi Marmel, who is a founding partner of the Improv’s parent company, Levity Live, remembers her first walk through the doors of the Hollywood venue when she was 21.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 7, 2023

Behind-the-scenes negotiations may be continuing, or a majority of the court may have reached a decision, while one or more justices have decided to write dissents and want more time.

From Washington Post • Apr. 19, 2023

Behind-the-scenes storytelling of the cocktails’ history is shared with pairing suggestions perfect for any upcoming holiday party.

From Seattle Times • Nov. 19, 2022

Behind-the-scenes maneuverings by Hamilton threatened to propel Pinckney past Adams, though Hamilton claimed that his chief goal was to knock Jefferson out altogether.

From "Founding Brothers: The Revolutionary Generation" by Joseph J. Ellis