Backhanded

Pronunciation: /ˈbækˌhændɪd/

Definitions of backhanded

adjective An adjective describes or modifies a noun or pronoun. In this case, 'backhanded' describes a type of action or compliment that is indirect or insincere.

Example Sentences

A1 She gave him a backhanded compliment, saying his cooking was 'not terrible'.

A2 The backhanded apology seemed insincere to everyone at the party.

B1 Her backhanded remark about his outfit left him feeling self-conscious.

B2 He tried to cover up his backhanded criticism with a smile, but it was still obvious.

C1 The backhanded deal seemed too good to be true, and it turned out to be a scam.

C2 Her backhanded manipulation of the situation was masterful, but also deceitful.

Examples of backhanded in a Sentence

formal She delivered a backhanded compliment during the meeting, causing tension among the team.

informal He always makes backhanded comments about my cooking, but I know he secretly enjoys it.

slang I can't stand her backhanded remarks, they're so passive-aggressive.

figurative The politician's backhanded deal ended up costing him his reputation in the long run.

Grammatical Forms of backhanded

• past tense: backhanded
• plural: backhanded
• comparative: more backhanded
• superlative: most backhanded
• present tense: backhand
• future tense: will backhand
• perfect tense: have backhanded
• continuous tense: is backhanding
• singular: backhanded
• positive degree: backhanded
• infinitive: to backhand
• gerund: backhanding
• participle: backhanding

Origin and Evolution of backhanded

First Known Use: 1601 year

Language of Origin: English

Story behind the word: The word 'backhanded' originated from the combination of 'back' and 'handed', implying a motion or action done with the back of the hand.

Evolution of the word: Initially used to describe a specific type of stroke in sports such as tennis or cricket, 'backhanded' eventually evolved to also describe a comment or action that is indirect or insincere.