Stab in the back
Meaning
To betray someone in a treacherous and disloyal way, especially by someone previously trusted.
Origin
The phrase "stab in the back" vividly conjures an image of treachery, where a victim is attacked from behind by someone they trusted, leaving them vulnerable and defenseless. While the literal act of backstabbing for betrayal has occurred throughout human history, from ancient assassinations to wartime ambushes, the figurative expression gained significant traction in the early 20th century. It became particularly resonant after World War I, famously used by German generals to describe the "Dolchstoßlegende" (stab-in-the-back legend), which blamed civilian politicians for the military defeat. This potent imagery of unexpected betrayal quickly seeped into the common lexicon, transforming a brutal physical act into a powerful metaphor for any profound disloyalty or treachery by a trusted person.
Examples
- When John shared Sarah's secret plans with their competitor, she felt it was a complete stab in the back.
- The manager's decision to promote a less experienced colleague over him felt like a real stab in the back after years of loyal service.