backstair
Done through intrigue
Backstair refers to something done secretly or through unofficial channels, especially involving intrigue or underhanded methods: backstair politics, backstair influence.
The image comes from the back stairways in large houses, used by servants and for discreet comings and goings away from public view.
Also appears as backstairs.
Concealed information
- hiddenKept out of sight
- clandestineConcealed from authorities
- surreptitiousDone secretly, avoiding detection
- furtiveSecretive and sly
stealthy · underhanded · discreet · unofficial · private · confidential · unobtrusive · quiet
Devising a secret plan
- conspiracyClandestine coordinated scheming
- machinationCrafty scheming, often hostile
- schemingCrafty and calculating
- maneuveringSkillful directional control
cabal · collusion · manipulation · double-dealing · treachery · betrayal · skulduggery · palace
Hired household workers
passageway · corridor · escape · maintenance · utility · alternate · postern · narrow
Unconfirmed circulating story
- scandalDisgraceful public affair
- whisperSpeech without full voice
- hearsayUnverified secondhand information
- tittle-tattleTrivial, idle chatter
innuendo · speculation · scuttlebutt · chatter · talk · buzz · talebearer · servants
secret
Concealed information
- hiddenKept out of sight
- clandestineConcealed from authorities
- surreptitiousDone secretly, avoiding detection
furtive · stealthy · underhanded · discreet · unofficial · private · confidential · unobtrusive · quiet · unseen
plotting
Devising a secret plan
- conspiracyClandestine coordinated scheming
- machinationCrafty scheming, often hostile
- schemingCrafty and calculating
maneuvering · cabal · collusion · manipulation · double-dealing · treachery · betrayal · skulduggery · palace · court
servants
Hired household workers
hidden · passageway · corridor · escape · maintenance · utility · alternate · postern · narrow · steep
rumor
Unconfirmed circulating story
- scandalDisgraceful public affair
- whisperSpeech without full voice
- hearsayUnverified secondhand information
tittle-tattle · innuendo · speculation · scuttlebutt · chatter · talk · buzz · talebearer · servants · household
backstairopen
Not closed
overt · transparent · public · aboveboard · out in the open
backstairofficial
Authority-sanctioned person or status
legitimate · proper · authorized · sanctioned · formal