Back"bite`, v. t. [2d back, n. +
bite.] To wound by clandestine detraction; to censure meanly or
spitefully (an absent person); to slander or speak evil of (one
absent). Spenser.
Back"bite`, v. i. To censure or revile
the absent.
They are arrant knaves, and will backbite.
Shak.