ém·i·nence grise ( -m -nä s grz )n. pl. ém·i·nence grises ( -m-näs grz) A powerful adviser or decision-maker who operates secretly or unofficially. Also called gray eminence. [French, the power behind the throne : éminence, power + grise, feminine of gris, gray, shadowy.] |
éminence grise French [eminɑ̃s griz]
n pl éminences grises [eminɑ̃s griz]
a person who wields power and influence unofficially or behind the scenes
[literally: grey eminence, originally applied to Père Joseph (François Le Clerc du Tremblay; died 1638), French monk, secretary of Cardinal Richelieu]
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