behind the scenes

[ bih-hahyndthuh-seenz ]

See synonyms for behind the scenes on Thesaurus.com

idiom

in secret or in private: Unbeknownst to most people, the group manipulated the survey results from behind the scenes.
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.

Origin of behind the scenes

First recorded in 1660–70

See also behind-the-scenes.

Other definitions for behind-the-scenes (2 of 2)

behind-the-scenes

[ bih-hahynd-thuh-seenz ]

adjective

happening or conducted out of view of the general public: The behind-the-scenes preparations made the convention a huge success.
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.

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

Origin of behind-the-scenes

First recorded in 1835–45

See also behind the scenes.

How to use behind the scenes in a sentence

Behind scenes a voice sings a lullaby, ‘Beautiful Land of Nod.’
Poems of Progress and New Thought Pastels | Ella Wheeler Wilcox
He had to go immediately behind scenes on the stage, since the play he was to be in was to come first on the program.
Jerry's Charge Account | Hazel Hutchins Wilson
She had control of affairs behind scenes and also of the commissariat, and it was not long before she had provoked a quarrel.
Old Mole | Gilbert Cannan
They arrived at the club, and pushed their way into the bedlam behind scenes.
Cinderella Jane | Marjorie Benton Cooke
Choir had sung jolly tune and preacher come from behind scenes.
Rolling Stones | O. Henry

Other Idioms and Phrases with behind the scenes

behind the scenes

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.

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