the power behind the throne
someone who secretly controls and influences decisions made by the leader or government of a country, but who does not have an official government position

[TahlilGaran] Dictionary of Contemporary English ▲

power behind the throne
someone who does not have an official position in a government or organization but who secretly controls it.
In his later years, the chairman's daughter was the power behind the throne.

[TahlilGaran] English Idioms Dictionary ▲

power behind the throne
the person who controls the person who seems to be in charge of something
The general is the power behind the throne in the small country and he has much influence.

[TahlilGaran] English Idioms Dictionary ▲

power behind the throne
n. phr. The person with the real power backing up the more visible partner (usually said about the wives of public figures).
It is rumored that the First Lady it the power behind the throne in the White House.

[TahlilGaran] English Idioms Dictionary ▲