backhanded compliment

Definition

An insult disguised as a compliment; a compliment which can be interpreted as an insult.

Etymology

Compound of backhanded + compliment. Similar figurative uses of backhanded are attested from at least the early 19th century.

Example Sentences

• ""[…] regardless of what he may say to you, he respects your great learning, and, therefore, has immense confidence in your judgment. The poor dear cannot differentiate between erudition and wisdom." Mr. Philander, with a mildly puzzled expression on his face, turned to pursue Professor Porter, and in his mind he was revolving the question of whether he should feel complimented or aggrieved at Miss Porter's rather back-handed compliment."
• "Perhaps, finally, the Netherlands will shed itself of the backhanded compliment of being the best team never to win a world championship."
• "In a backhanded compliment, Markopolos said the SEC is a "bad regulator, but the best of a very sorry lot.""