backhander
/ˌbækˈhændər/
NOUN
1. A bribe or illicit payment
An unofficial or secret payment given to someone, often in exchange for favorable treatment, influence, or a business advantage.
1.1. Bribery and corrupt payments
Refers to money or other benefits secretly given to influence a decision, secure a contract, or obtain preferential treatment.
Synonyms
Examples
- The contractor was accused of offering a backhander to secure the government contract.
- The official denied receiving a backhander from the company.
- Investigators uncovered a system of backhanders involving several senior executives.
Related Words
- corruption
- commission
- under-the-table payment
- slush fund
- fraud
- embezzlement
1.2. An unofficial gratuity or extra payment
Refers to an informal payment or financial reward given in addition to an ordinary fee, salary, or agreed compensation.
Synonyms
Examples
- The employee was suspected of accepting a backhander for recommending a particular supplier.
- The agent allegedly received a backhander for arranging the transaction.
Related Words
NOUN
2. A backhanded blow or strike
A blow delivered with the back of the hand rather than the palm, or a striking movement performed using a backhand technique.
2.1. Physical striking
Refers to a slap or blow delivered with the back of the hand.
Synonyms
- backhand
- backhanded slap
- backhanded blow
Examples
- He delivered a quick backhander during the fight.
- The boxer caught his opponent with a powerful backhander.
Related Words
2.2. Backhand stroke in sports
Refers to a shot or stroke performed with the backhand side of a racket or sporting implement.
Synonyms
- backhand stroke
- backhand shot
- backhander
Antonyms
- forehand
- forehand stroke
Examples
- The tennis player finished the rally with a powerful backhander.
- She surprised her opponent with a precise backhander down the line.
Related Words
NOUN
3. An indirect or insulting remark
A remark that delivers criticism, sarcasm, or an insult indirectly rather than expressing it openly.
3.1. Verbal insult and indirect criticism
Refers to a subtle or unexpected verbal attack, often disguised as a compliment or casual observation.
Synonyms
Antonyms
- compliment
- praise
- tribute
- commendation
Examples
- Her backhander about his presentation left him visibly uncomfortable.
- He responded to the criticism with a sarcastic backhander.
- The seemingly friendly comment was actually a verbal backhander.