‖ éminence grise
(eminɑ̃s griz)
[F., = grey eminence: see eminence 5.]
A term originally applied to Père Joseph (1577–1638), the confidential agent of Cardinal Richelieu; now extended to describe one who wields real though not titular control.
| 1838 Westm. Rev. XXXI. 16 The attendants..left Richelieu alone with his celebrated secret agent, known by the soubriquet of l'Eminence grise—Father Joseph, the capuchin friar. 1937 Times 8 Apr. 18/2 (headline) Eminence grise. 1955 Times 2 May 11/1 Many Americans will no doubt find it strange that Mr. Menon,..whom they have come to regard as a sinister éminence grise standing between two countries, should choose to act as their ambassador. 1958 A. Hocking Epitaph for Nurse i. 20 She was going to be the Eminence Grise, the power behind the throne. |