backroom

backroom boy

Someone who advises a public figure or maintains a professional role that does not garner public attention. Originally used to describe scientists and technicians who worked without public knowledge or recognition in the United Kingdom during World War II. Primarily heard in UK. Although he is a skilled political strategist, he lacks the charm and charisma necessary to run for office himself and, therefore, is likely to stay a backroom boy for the rest of his career. We're not fools—we know that the backroom boys actually have all the power around here. My father had no objection to being a backroom boy—he was a born chemist with no interest most comfortable in the lab.

See also: backroom, boy

the boys in the back room

A group of men engaged in clandestine decision-making. We're not fools—we know that the boys in the back room actually have all the power around here.

See also: back, boy, room

Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.

the boys in the back room

 and the backroom boys

Fig. any private group of men who make decisions, usually political decisions. (See also .) The boys in the back room picked the last presidential candidate. The backroom boys have decided too many things in the past. Their day is over.

See also: back, boy, room

McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs. © 2002 by The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc.