power behind the throne
Someone who appears to be without special status, but who has great covert influence on a person in authority.
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“The assistant is the real power behind the throne.”
“Everyone thinks the manager makes the decisions, but his wife is the power behind the throne.”
“While the king officially signed the decrees, his quiet advisor remained the true power behind the throne, shaping the nation's policy from the shadows.”
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brown power
The production of electricity made from conventional sources, such as coal, oil, natural gas and nuclear power.
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come to power
To be installed in high office, for example as a king, president, or prime minister.
- 03
grey power
The collective political, economic, and social influence of senior citizens, especially when they are mobilized by a common interest.
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poor power
Limited ability.
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power coffee
A working session or seminar at which important discussions may be held, and important decisions made, over servings of coffee or at a coffeehouse.
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power grab
An attempt to gain authority in an oppressive or unscrupulous way.
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power lunch
A working lunch at which bosses make business decisions or hold important discussions.
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power luncher
One who attends or participates in a power lunch.
Last updated August 10, 2026