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Definition of backstabber

backstabber

/ˈbækˌstæb.ər/
back · stab · ber
Plural:backstabbers
•
Adjective:backstabbing
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backstabber Lexical Profile

backstabber Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A person who betrays a friend, colleague, or ally through deceitful actions or malicious criticism behind their back while pretending to be friendly.

Example

"She realized her close colleague was a backstabber when he took credit for her research during the executive meeting."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
View all antonyms for backstabber

• Nearby Words

backspin
backsplash
backstab
backstabber
backstabbing
backstage
backstitch

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in the early 20th century as an agent noun from the figurative idiom 'to stab (someone) in the back,' evoking treachery committed while the victim is unsuspecting.

Cite this Entry

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