Uncover
/ʌnˈkʌvər/
Definitions
2 meaningsTo remove something that is covering or hiding something else; to reveal.
/ʌnˈkʌvər/
To remove a covering from something.
She uncovered the pot to check the soup.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're playing hide-and-seek. When you *uncover* something, you're taking away the thing that's hiding it! Like, you uncover a treasure chest by opening it.
👶 For kids: To take off the cover so you can see something.
More Examples
The detective uncovered the truth behind the mystery.
They uncovered the statue at the ceremony.
How It's Used
"He uncovered the box to reveal its contents."
"Archaeologists are working to uncover ancient artifacts."
To discover something that was previously hidden, unknown, or secret.
/ʌnˈkʌvər/
To discover something hidden or unknown.
The investigation uncovered a conspiracy.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're a detective! When you *uncover* something, it's like finding a secret or a hidden clue. For example, you might uncover that your friend ate the last cookie.
👶 For kids: To find out something that was hidden or secret.
More Examples
The scientists uncovered new evidence about the disease.
The team uncovered a valuable resource on the island.
How It's Used
"The journalist uncovered a scandal involving the company's finances."
"The research team uncovered new details about the historical figure."
Synonyms
Idioms & expressions
uncover one's tracks
To eliminate or obscure any evidence or clues that could lead to one's discovery.
"The spy tried to uncover his tracks to avoid being caught."
From Middle English *uncoueren*, from Old English *un-* (prefix meaning 'not') + *ofēran* (to cover).
The word has been used since the 14th century, evolving from a simple act of removing a covering to include the discovery of hidden or unknown information.
Memory tip
Think of removing a blanket (cover) to *uncover* the bed.