particle
behind-
B1
Hinter- is a prefix meaning 'behind-' used to form compounds (e.g., hinterlassen). As a preposition 'hinter' means 'behind' and governs dative for location or accusative for motion. The hyphen indicates it's a bound particle/prefix. Not a standalone discourse particle; watch case after it.
Examples
Das Präfix hinter- zeigt die Bedeutung 'behind' in Wörtern wie hinterlegen.
The prefix 'hinter-' indicates 'behind', as in words like 'hinterlegen'.
Der Polizist blieb hinter dem Auto, damit er den Fahrer beobachten konnte, ohne aufzufallen.
The policeman stayed behind the car so that he could observe the driver without being noticed.
Details
Mnemonics
think of the word 'hinder' and an arrow pointing to the back
like English 'hinder' → behind
Notes
A bound prefix/affix used to form verbs and compounds (e.g., hinterlassen, hintereinander). It does not appear alone without attachment.