furtive — attempting to avoid notice or attention, typically because of guilt or a belief that discovery would lead to trouble; secretive
Part of speech: ADJECTIVE
Definition: attempting to avoid notice or attention, typically because of guilt or a belief that discovery would lead to trouble; secretive
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˈfɜːrtɪv/
Example Sentences
- The student's furtive attempts to cheat were so obvious that even the sleeping professor noticed.
- His furtive glances at the chocolate cake revealed his true intentions.
- The cat's furtive movements suggested it was planning another attack on the houseplant.
furtive
ADJECTIVE[/ˈfɜːrtɪv/]
attempting to avoid notice or attention, typically because of guilt or a belief that discovery would lead to trouble; secretive
The thief made a furtive glance over his shoulder before slipping the ring into his pocket.
The furtive detective stays protective in the shadows!
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
From Latin 'furtivus' meaning 'stolen' or 'secret,' derived from 'furtum' (theft). The word originally described actions done like a thief - secretly and carefully to avoid detection.
Breakdown
furt- (theft/stealing) + -ive (adjective suffix meaning 'having the quality of')
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“The student's furtive attempts to cheat were so obvious that even the sleeping professor noticed.”
“His furtive glances at the chocolate cake revealed his true intentions.”
“The cat's furtive movements suggested it was planning another attack on the houseplant.”
“She made a furtive phone call to avoid her boss overhearing.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
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