backhanded

/ˌbækˈhændəd/
/ˈbækhændɪd/
IPA guide

Definitions of backhanded
  1. adjective
    (of racket strokes) made across the body with back of hand facing direction of stroke
    synonyms: backhand
  2. adjective
    roundabout or ambiguous
    “attacks from that source amounted to a backhanded compliment to his integrity”
    “a backhanded and dishonest way of reaching his goal”
    synonyms:
    indirect
    extended senses; not direct in manner or language or behavior or action
Cite this entry
Style:
MLA
  • MLA
  • APA
  • Chicago

Copy citation
DISCLAIMER: These example sentences appear in various news sources and books to reflect the usage of the word ‘backhanded'. Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Vocabulary.com or its editors. Send us feedback
Word Family