BusinessAugust 9, 2026

backroom

BAK-room

Definition

Conducted in private or secret, often implying illicit, unethical, or exclusive influence.

Etymology

Originating in the 19th century, the term refers to the literal practice of conducting business in the private back rooms of pubs or offices, away from public view.

In the news

The article uses the term to describe an alleged private agreement between utility companies that bypasses public oversight, highlighting concerns about transparency and fairness in utility rate setting.

Virginia lawmaker says Dominion-NextEra 'backroom deal' would hike bills, sink trust

Read the full article ↗

The Cool Down

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