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.

Example Sentences

Speaking at a press conference on a visit to Mumbai, he added: "I want to be really clear about that and I say that from the informed position of the UK having played a part behind the scenes in this with the US and with the mediators."

Read more on BBC

Behind the scenes, however, the conversation around the future of the Fast & Furious franchise is very different, according to people familiar with the matter.

Read more on Wall Street Journal

Behind the scenes, Chung, who often goes by “E.S.” in the West, also is known to fraternize comfortably with Hyundai staff, the company’s auto dealers and others.

Read more on Wall Street Journal

Behind the scenes of ceasefire talks, others working in the shadows made a major difference too.

Read more on BBC

“I think it’s an important juxtaposition — here’s a beautiful dish in front of you — and now you’re getting a peek at what the cost is behind the scenes to make this beauty that you get to consume,” Gearhart says.

Read more on Los Angeles Times