Backroom boy(s)

Meaning

The idiom "backroom boy(s)" refers to someone who works behind the scenes or in a back room, usually performing tasks that are not directly related to the main business or operations of an organization. This term is often used to describe administrative assistants, clerks, or other support staff who perform important but often unnoticed work.

Usage

• The backroom boys of the law enforcement agency worked tirelessly to gather evidence for the case.
• The CEO always acknowledges the contributions of the backroom boys who keep the company running smoothly.
• The backroom boys of the restaurant were responsible for preparing meals and ensuring that everything ran smoothly during busy shifts.
• The backroom boys of the music industry played a crucial role in promoting new artists and managing the business side of things.
• The team's success was largely due to the hard work of the backroom boys who did all the administrative work.

Roots and History

The idiom "backroom boy(s)" is believed to have originated in the early 20th century, when many businesses had separate areas where administrative tasks were performed. Over time, this term has come to be used more broadly to refer to anyone who works behind the scenes or in a back room, regardless of their specific job duties.

Synonyms in English

• Support staff
• Administrative assistants
• Clerks
• Secretaries
• Office workers

Synonyms in other languages

• Japan: 秘書 (shi-sho)
• France: Secrétaire (secretary)
• Spain: Administrador (administrator)
• Italy: Segretariato (secretariat)
• Germany: Sekretariat (secretariat)

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