backstabbed
/bækˈstæbd/
VERB
1. To be betrayed or treated disloyally
To be secretly betrayed, deceived, or harmed by someone trusted, especially through dishonest or disloyal actions.
1.1. Betrayed by someone trusted
Being secretly betrayed by a friend, colleague, ally, or other trusted person who acts against one's interests.
Synonyms
- betrayed
- double-crossed
- crossed
- stabbed in the back
- sold down the river
- two-timed
Antonyms
- defended
- guarded
- protected
- safeguarded
- saved
- shielded
- stood by
Examples
- Backstabbed by someone she trusted, Sarah found it hard to rebuild her confidence.
- The team felt betrayed when they realized they had been backstabbed by one of their own members.
- He never expected to be backstabbed by his closest friend.
- The political leader felt deeply wounded after being backstabbed by a longtime ally.
- After being backstabbed by her coworker, Jane became more cautious about sharing her ideas.
Related Words
1.2. Betrayed through secret criticism or malicious gossip
Being harmed through malicious remarks, gossip, slander, or damaging statements made secretly behind one's back.
Synonyms
- backbitten
- slandered
- smeared
Related Words
1.3. Betrayed by being reported or exposed
Being betrayed when someone secretly reveals information, reports one's activities, or informs authorities about one's actions.
Synonyms
- given away
- peached
- shopped
- turned in
Related Words
- reported
- exposed
- informed on
- snitched on
1.4. Betrayed by someone abandoning an agreement
Being let down when someone withdraws from a promise, agreement, or commitment, or reverses a previously stated position.
Synonyms
- went back on
- reneged
Related Words
- retracted
- recanted
- disavowed
- repudiated
- withdrew