Back"bite`, v. i. [2nd back, n., + bite]
To wound by clandestine detraction; to censure meanly or spitefully (as absent person); to slander or speak evil of (one absent).
Spenser.
© Webster 1913.
Back"bite`, v. i.
To censure or revile the absent.
They are arrant knaves, and will backbite.
Shak.
© Webster 1913.