secretive — inclined to conceal feelings and intentions or not to disclose information
Part of speech: ADJECTIVE
Definition: inclined to conceal feelings and intentions or not to disclose information
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˈsiːkrətɪv/
Example Sentences
- My cat becomes secretive whenever she's planning to knock something off the table.
- The company has been secretive about their new product launch.
- He's so secretive about his cooking recipes that even his wife doesn't know them.
secretive
ADJECTIVE[/ˈsiːkrətɪv/]
inclined to conceal feelings and intentions or not to disclose information
He is secretive about the small notebook he always hides inside his coat.
Secretive artist, creative and decorative
Got the picture? Now let's practice.
🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
From Latin 'secretus' meaning 'set apart' or 'hidden', derived from 'secernere' meaning 'to set apart' or 'distinguish'. The suffix '-ive' was added to form an adjective indicating a tendency or quality.
Breakdown
secret (from Latin secretus, hidden) + -ive (adjective suffix indicating tendency) = secretive (having a tendency to keep things secret)
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“My cat becomes secretive whenever she's planning to knock something off the table.”
“The company has been secretive about their new product launch.”
“He's so secretive about his cooking recipes that even his wife doesn't know them.”
“She gave me a secretive smile and whispered something about a surprise party.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
Related
Want to master 19,000+ words?
Sign up free for flashcards & quizzes.