back stairs

American  

noun

1. stairs at the back of a house, as for use by servants.

2. a means of intrigue.

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Etymology

Origin of back stairs

First recorded in 1620–30

Example Sentences

When hearing his voice, some attempt to reach through the shrubbery while others make a run for the back stairs in hopes of seeing him.

From Los Angeles Times

But if I head down to get my laundry at night, suddenly all 6'2'' and 225 pounds of me is running up my back stairs — because devils are typically slow and won't be able to get through the door to my apartment once I make it there.

From Salon

I felt low, going down the back stairs, until I ran into Daddy coming up the back stairs to get me so I could see Great-great-aunt Florentine before he opened the doors to the Serenity Suite.

From Literature

I took the back stairs by myself.

From Literature

I took the curving back stairs to the downstairs kitchen, where casseroles lined the counters.

From Literature

Related Words

• side door