Discussion on backbiting, its danger, and its definition

The Shaykh : Let us speak about an issue, and that is the issue of backbiting. Backbiting has become widespread among many people today, to the point that in some gatherings it is the highlight of the session; the people present do not take pleasure in anything except backbiting, may Allah protect us from that. Backbiting is among the major sins, as Ibn 'Abd al-Qawi (may Allah have mercy on him) said:
"It has been said to be a major sin, and it has been said to be a minor one, backbiting and talebearing *** Both of them are major sins according to the text of Ahmad"
That is, it is among the major sins. So what is backbiting? We say that we do not define it with a definition clearer, more explicit, more concise, or more eloquent than the definition given by the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him and his family). He said, "Yes, yes, stand up. What is backbiting?"
The student: ... .

The Shaykh : You have done well. Rest. Whether you mention it in his character, his appearance, his work, or anything else he dislikes, if you mention it, this is backbiting. If you say so-and-so is an open sinner, this is backbiting. So-and-so is a liar, this is backbiting. So-and-so is angry, this is backbiting. It is considered among the major sins. So-and-so is short, so-and-so is large, this is backbiting. Whatever he dislikes, if you mention it in his absence, this is backbiting. It is among the major sins, among the major sins that are not forgiven except by repentance, unless Allah wills. If you mention your brother with what he dislikes in his presence, it is not backbiting, but it is cursing and insulting. And the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him and his family) said: And it, meaning the cursing, is also forbidden. It is not permissible for a person to curse his brother and mention his defect, even if he is present.