Covert

/ˈkʌvərt/

adjectiveIntermediate📊CommonQuality
2 meanings3 questions

Definitions

2 meanings
1

Concealed or disguised; not openly shown or done.

/ˈkʌvərt/

adjectiveneutralIntermediate
Quality

Not openly displayed; secret or disguised.

The spy gathered covert information about the enemy.

💡 Simply: Imagine you have a secret that you don't want anyone to know. That secret thing is *covert*. Like, spies often have to do *covert* missions to get their information without being seen.

👶 For kids: Secret and hidden, like a secret agent's mission!

More Examples

2

The covert surveillance operation was carefully planned.

3

The organization engaged in a covert campaign to influence public opinion.

How It's Used

Military

"They conducted a covert operation to gather intelligence."

Politics

"The government was accused of covert actions against its rivals."

2

A thicket or other sheltered place where game animals hide.

/ˈkʌvərt/

nounneutralAdvanced
Place

A thicket affording cover for game.

The fox disappeared into the covert.

💡 Simply: Think of a cozy, hidden spot where animals like to hide. That's a *covert*. It's like a secret hiding place in the woods or bushes.

👶 For kids: A hiding place for animals!

More Examples

2

The hunting party searched the covert for the rabbits.

3

The covert offered protection from predators.

How It's Used

Hunting

"The hunters flushed a pheasant from the covert."

Nature

"The birds sought shelter in the covert during the storm."

Tip:The cover where animals seek refuge.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Antonyms

From Old French *covrir* (to cover), from Latin *cooperire* (to cover completely).

The word has been used since the 14th century, initially referring to covered or sheltered places, then extending to actions done secretly.

Memory tip

Think of a 'cover' over something secret.

Word Origin

LanguageOld French
Original meaning

"to cover"

covert operationcovert actioncovert surveillancecovert intelligence

Common misspellings

covetcoverdcoverted

Usage

30%Spoken
70%Written