power behind the throne

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.

Jones said McSweeney was perceived "by a lot of MPs as the power behind the throne" and "whispering into his ear".

From BBC • Feb. 9, 2026

They are accusing Musk of being the true power behind the throne.

From Salon • Dec. 24, 2024

But he has made it clear that he will stay on as a power behind the throne.

From New York Times • Jul. 22, 2023

He is backed once more by Cartes, who some see as the power behind the throne, but who is facing U.S. sanctions over corruption allegations that have hurt his reputation.

From Reuters • May 1, 2023

In 1605, Bellarmine would almost certainly have been elected Pope, but declined to offer himself as a candidate, preferring to be the power behind the throne.

From "The Scientists" by John Gribbin