die Kulisse
Translation
scenery, backdrop, wings (theater), setting
Examples
Die Schauspieler warteten hinter der Kulisse.
The actors waited in the wings.
Hinter den Kulissen wurde viel verhandelt.
A lot was negotiated behind the scenes.
Die Alpen boten eine malerische Kulisse.
The Alps provided a picturesque backdrop.
Grammar Patterns
((behind the scenes)) behind the scenes The negotiations took place behind the scenes.
((to serve as a backdrop for sth.)) to serve as a backdrop for sth. The city served as a backdrop for the film.
Similar Words
Synonyms: Bühnenbild (stage set), Hintergrund (background); Antonyms: Vordergrund (foreground)
Etymology
From French 'coulisse' (a sliding groove), derived from 'couler' (to flow, to slide).
Memory Tips
Sounds like 'cool scene'. Imagine a cool scene painted on the theater backdrop.