What does backhanded mean?
"Backhanded" is an adjective describing words or gestures that appear complimentary or polite on the surface but carry an undertone of insult, mockery, or ambiguity. A backhanded compliment is its classic form — praise so laced with qualification that it lands as criticism, as in "You're surprisingly articulate." The word also has a neutral, physical sense: a backhanded stroke or blow is one delivered with the palm turned inward or the back of the hand leading, as in tennis. The term derives from "backhand," combining "back" and "hand," with the figurative sense emerging by the seventeenth century from the idea of a blow struck indirectly or covertly. Today it is used almost exclusively for insincere or double-edged communication, and it reliably signals that the speaker's courtesy should not be taken at face value. Its near neighbor "underhanded," meaning secretly dishonest, is related in spirit but distinct in meaning.
(Of a remark or compliment) indirect and insincere, conveying criticism or mockery beneath a surface of politeness.
"His praise was so backhanded that nobody took it as flattery."
Typically applied to compliments, apologies, and praise.
(Of a stroke or blow) executed with the back of the hand facing forward or the palm turned inward.
"She hit a crisp backhanded return down the line."
A backhanded compliment is an insult wearing praise as a disguise — and English borrowed the trick from tennis.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of backhanded
The word combines "back" + "hand," first recorded as an adjective in the early 17th century. It originally described blows or actions delivered with the back of the hand or in a reversed manner. From this literal sense grew the figurative meaning — something done indirectly or obliquely — which came to characterize compliments and remarks that undercut themselves. Related forms include the verb "to backhand" and the noun "backhand," familiar today from racquet sports.
Related word forms
How backhanded is actually used
Almost always carries negative connotations when describing speech, implying slyness or veiled hostility. The sporting sense (as in tennis) is neutral. The adverb "backhandedly" and noun "backhandedness" exist but are rare; writers more often use "in a backhanded way."
Easily confused with backhanded
"Underhanded" means secretly dishonest or deceitful, while "backhanded" describes remarks that are indirectly insulting or strokes made with the palm facing backward.