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Definition of backhanded

backhanded

/ˌbækˈhæn.dɪd/
back · hand · ed
Adverb:backhandedly
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backhanded Lexical Profile

backhanded Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Indirect, ambiguous, or insincere, especially when conveying subtle criticism under the guise of praise.

Example

"Telling the author that her new novel was surprisingly readable felt like a backhanded compliment."

2

Performed with the back of the hand facing the direction of the stroke or movement.

Example

"The tennis player delivered a powerful backhanded volley down the line to win the match."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• adverb

1

With the back of the hand facing the direction of the stroke, or in an indirect, ambiguous manner.

Example

"He returned the serve backhanded before rushing toward the net."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for backhanded

• Rhymes for backhanded

• Nearby Words

background
backgrounder
backhand
backhanded
backhandedly
backhander
backheel

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Backhanded. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/backhanded
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