A dodgy or corrupt payment, typically a bribe.
Backhander
Example Sentences
"He gave the inspector a backhander to look the other way."
"A few backhanders and the planning permission came through."
Etymology & History
From the gesture of passing money "behind the back" secretly. Used in London criminal and business circles since the early 20th century to describe bribes or illicit payments.
Word Details
📍
Region
London/Cockney
📅
Era
Modern
✓
Language
Mild
💬
Formality
Informal
Categories:
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Anglotopia's Dictionary of British English 2nd Edition
British Slang from A to Zed
By Jonathan Thomas
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