The idiom "backstairs gossip" refers to whispered, secretive, and often malicious conversations about someone or something, typically carried out behind the scenes and away from the scrutiny of others.
This expression often conveys a sense of nastiness, pettiness, and underhandedness, as the gossip is being spread in a covert and sneaky manner.
As a noun, the term "backstairs gossip" refers to the actual act of spreading these whispers and rumors. As a verb, one might "backstairs gossip" about a person, meaning to engage in this type of clandestine and unsavory conversation.
Some synonyms for "backstairs gossip" include: whisperings, murmurings, secrets, scuttlebutt, and tittle-tattle.
The origins of this expression are unclear, but it likely dates back several centuries, when wealthy households often had separate staircases for the use of servants, who would use them to move about the house and carry out their duties while remaining separate from the main household. This physical separation created an environment in which servants could freely gossip amongst themselves and exchange secrets, free from the prying ears of their masters.
Here are ten sample sentences using "backstairs gossip":
- She was known for spreading backstairs gossip about her coworkers.
- He was always privy to the latest backstairs gossip about the royal family.
- The backstairs gossip about the political scandal was all anyone could talk about.
- The backstairs gossip about the celebrity breakup was making headlines.
- Backstairs gossip was rampant in the small town, with rumors flying left and right.
- The backstairs gossip about the new hire quickly spread throughout the office.
- She tried to ignore the backstairs gossip and focus on her work.
- He was often the target of backstairs gossip due to his eccentric behavior.
- The backstairs gossip about the sudden resignation was never confirmed.
- The backstairs gossip about the upcoming election was causing quite a stir.