covertly — in a way that is not openly acknowledged or displayed; secretly
Part of speech: ADVERB
Definition: in a way that is not openly acknowledged or displayed; secretly
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˈkoʊvərtli/
Example Sentences
- She covertly checked her phone during the boring meeting, pretending to take notes.
- The detective covertly followed the suspect through the crowded market.
- He covertly ate his roommate's leftover pizza while everyone was asleep.
covertly
ADVERB[/ˈkoʊvərtli/]
in a way that is not openly acknowledged or displayed; secretly
The spy covertly slips a folded note under the diplomat's coffee cup.
Moving covertly, acting overtly, working expertly!
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
The word derives from Old French 'covert', meaning 'covered' or 'hidden'. The term originated from medieval hunting practice, where 'covert' referred to a sheltered, concealed place in a forest where hunters would hide and wait for game.
Breakdown
covert (hidden, covered) + -ly (adverbial suffix forming an adverb of manner), literally meaning 'in a hidden or concealed manner'.
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“She covertly checked her phone during the boring meeting, pretending to take notes.”
“The detective covertly followed the suspect through the crowded market.”
“He covertly ate his roommate's leftover pizza while everyone was asleep.”
“The journalist covertly recorded the conversation to expose the corruption.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
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