Offstage

/ˌɔfˈsteɪdʒ/ adverb, adjective

Definition

Away from the main performance area in a theater or film; private or hidden from public view.

Etymology

From off- (away from) + stage. Theatrical term that entered English in the 1800s; the metaphorical sense 'private' developed in the 20th century.

Kelly Says

The phrase 'offstage behavior' became crucial to celebrity culture in the 1950s-60s as paparazzi revealed that public personas often completely contradicted private lives, birthing modern celebrity scandals.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.