adjective. Furtively carried on; clandestine.

noun. Stairs in the back part of a house, as distinguished from the front stairs; a second staircase at the rear of a building; hence, a private or indirect way.

adjective. Private; indirect; secret; conducted with secrecy; intriguing; -- as if finding access by the back stairs.

noun. A staircase at the rear of a building or one normally only used by servants and tradesmen.

noun. An indirect or furtive means of access or intercourse.

adjective. Secret or furtive.

adjective. Scandalous.

noun. a second staircase at the rear of a building

adjective. secret and sly or sordid