behind the scenes

¹

[ bih-hahynd thuh seenz ]

idiom

1. in secret or in private:

   Unbeknownst to most people, the group manipulated the survey results from behind the scenes.

2. in a part of a show, production, organization, etc., that is not visible to the public; backstage:

   Have you ever wondered what really happens behind the scenes at a rock concert?

   Join us as we take you behind the scenes of our photo shoot and discuss some of the products used.

behind-the-scenes

²

[ bih-hahynd-thuh-seenz ]

adjective

1. happening or conducted out of view of the general public:

   The behind-the-scenes preparations made the convention a huge success.

2. held or kept privately by or among a few key or influential people:

   There are rumors of behind-the-scenes negotiations taking place that may change international laws on nuclear power.

3. occurring backstage:

   I could hear the behind-the-scenes activities of the stage crew.

Word History and Origins

Origin of behind the scenes¹

First recorded in 1660–70

Origin of behind the scenes²

First recorded in 1835–45

Idioms and Phrases

In secret or private, away from public view, as in His struggle for the top position took place strictly behind the scenes . This term alludes to the various activities that go on behind the curtain in theaters, out of the audience's view. [Late 1700s] Also see behind closed doors .

Related Words

• confidential
• exclusive
• independent
• individual
• secret
• separate
• special