Definitions

furtive

[fur-tiv] / ˈfɜr tɪv /

ADJECTIVE

sneaky, secretive

Synonyms

STRONGEST

clandestine conspiratorial covert surreptitious

WEAK

artful calculating cautious circumspect cloaked crafty creepy cunning disguised elusive evasive foxy guileful hidden hush-hush insidious masked scheming shifty skulking slinking sly stealthy sub-rosa tricky under wraps under-the-table undercover underhand underhanded wily

Antonyms

STRONGEST

aboveboard honest open

WEAK

forthright truthful

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

And these furtive ads are so prevalent that mere diligence in scrolling or brush-ups on digital literacy aren’t sufficient solutions.

From Slate • Jun. 27, 2026

The frenzied but furtive social scene contradicts the message from Myanmar authorities that the country is back to normal.

From Barron's • Jun. 12, 2026

As the temperature heads below freezing, powerful pyrotechnics light up the sky and Tennant does indeed stand in a bush looking furtive, as promised.

From BBC • May 13, 2026

He admitted giving a county official dozens of cash payoffs during furtive meetings in cars, restaurants and men’s rooms while reaping lucrative real-estate leases in return.

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 17, 2025

Harry and Ron grinned at Hagrid, who gave them a furtive smile from behind his bushy beard.

From "Harry Potter And The Goblet Of Fire" by J. K. Rowling

Vocabulary lists containing furtive

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