Spy
/spaɪ/
Definitions
2 meaningsA person who secretly gathers information about others or an organization.
/spaɪ/
A person who secretly collects and reports information on the activities of others, especially for a government or organization.
The government sent a spy to infiltrate the enemy's camp.
💡 Simply: Imagine a secret agent, like James Bond, whose job is to find out hidden information. A spy does the same thing, but maybe without the cool gadgets!
👶 For kids: A spy is like a secret watcher. They try to find out secrets without anyone knowing.
More Examples
She was accused of being a double agent, a spy working for two countries.
The spy managed to steal valuable secrets from the rival corporation.
How It's Used
"The government was accused of using spies to monitor its political opponents."
"During the war, spies were essential for gathering intelligence about enemy troop movements."
To observe someone or something secretly and report information about them.
/spaɪ/
To secretly collect and report information on the activities of others.
He was accused of spying on his neighbor.
💡 Simply: To spy means to secretly watch or find out information about someone or something. Like, if you peek at your friend's test answers.
👶 For kids: To spy means to watch someone secretly to see what they're doing.
More Examples
The company used surveillance equipment to spy on its employees.
The government was found to have spied on its citizens.
How It's Used
"Countries often spy on each other for strategic advantage."
"Companies may spy on their competitors to gain market insight."
Synonyms
Idioms & expressions
double agent
A person who secretly works for two opposing sides.
"The novel featured a thrilling plot about a double agent who betrayed both sides."
spyglass
A small telescope used to see distant objects.
"The pirate used a spyglass to search for treasure on the horizon."
From Middle English espien, from Old French espier ('to observe, watch'), from Frankish *spehōn ('to look, watch'), from Proto-Germanic *spehōną ('to look, observe').
The word 'spy' has been in use for centuries, reflecting the long history of espionage in war and diplomacy.
Memory tip
Think of a hidden camera – a spy is like a person who is always watching and observing secretly.