'behind-the-scenes' originates from the theatrical term 'behind the scenes,' where 'behind' meant 'at the back of' and 'scenes' referred to the stage settings.

'behind the scenes' was used in the 18th century to describe activities occurring out of public view, eventually becoming the modern English adjective 'behind-the-scenes.'

Initially, it referred to activities occurring out of public view in theater, but over time it evolved to describe any secretive or private activities.