backhanded compliment
Hello, you have come here looking for the meaning of the word backhanded compliment. In DICTIOUS you will not only get to know all the dictionary meanings for the word backhanded compliment, but we will also tell you about its etymology, its characteristics and you will know how to say backhanded compliment in singular and plural. Everything you need to know about the word backhanded compliment you have here. The definition of the word backhanded compliment will help you to be more precise and correct when speaking or writing your texts. Knowing the definition ofbackhanded compliment, as well as those of other words, enriches your vocabulary and provides you with more and better linguistic resources.
English
Alternative forms
Etymology
Compound of backhanded + compliment. Similar figurative uses of backhanded are attested from at least the early 19th century.
Pronunciation
Audio (General Australian): (file)
Noun
backhanded compliment (plural backhanded compliments)
- (idiomatic) An insult disguised as a compliment; a compliment which can be interpreted as an insult.
- 1914, Edgar Rice Burroughs, chapter 17, in Tarzan of the Apes:
- " regardless of what he may say to you, he respects your great learning, and, therefore, has immense confidence in your judgment. The poor dear cannot differentiate between erudition and wisdom." Mr. Philander, with a mildly puzzled expression on his face, turned to pursue Professor Porter, and in his mind he was revolving the question of whether he should feel complimented or aggrieved at Miss Porter's rather back-handed compliment.
Synonyms
Translations
insult disguised as a compliment
|
