power behind the throne
POW-er beh-HYND the THROHN
ˈpaʊər bɪˈhaɪnd ðə θroʊnListen
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Dictionary meaning
a person or group that exercises real political control or decisive influence while allowing a nominal or figurehead ruler to occupy the position of formal authority; the phrase describes situations in which the true source of power is hidden behind an official face, as in the case of powerful advisers, regents, family members, or factions who manipulate rulers; historically applied to figures such as Cardinal Richelieu, who directed French foreign policy while Louis XIII reigned, or to powerful courtiers and favourites across monarchical systems worldwide
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