under-the-table deal
nounUK /ˌʌndə ðə ˈteɪbl diːl/
US /ˌʌndər ðə ˈteɪbl diːl/
A secret deal that is kept hidden because it is not fair or honest.
The two men made an under-the-table deal to avoid paying taxes.
RELATED WORDS
OTHER MEANINGS
2. An agreement made privately to avoid official rules or taxes.
The company lost its license after an under-the-table deal with inspectors was exposed.
3. A hidden arrangement between people that others are not supposed to know about.
The coach was fired for making an under-the-table deal with a player's family.
4. A dishonest exchange done quietly to gain an unfair advantage.
Investigators found an under-the-table deal between the contractor and the mayor.