Definitions

in secret

ADJECTIVE

behind-the-scenes

Synonyms

WEAK

backstage behind the curtain in a corner in the dark out of public view sub-rosa

ADVERB

huggermugger

Synonyms

WEAK

behind closed doors behind someone's back by stealth clandestinely confidentially covertly furtively hush-hush in camera in confidence in holes and corners in strict confidence insidiously intimately o obscurely on the Q.T.

ADVERB

secretly

Synonyms

STRONGEST

clandestinely covertly furtively personally privately quietly stealthily surreptitiously

WEAK

behind closed doors behind someone's back by stealth confidentially hush-hush in camera in confidence in holes and corners in strict confidence insidiously intimately obscurely on the Q.T. on the quiet on the sly privily slyly sub-rosa under the table underhandedly unobserved

Antonyms

STRONGEST

publicly

WEAK

openly

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.

They told ProPublica it’s likely the first time in modern history that so many consequential decisions were made in secret by its nine members.

From Salon • Jul. 3, 2026

Veterans and their advocates generally welcomed the announced new housing but also expressed skepticism about an initiative that has been planned in secret with no opportunity for review by its beneficiaries.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 10, 2026

She then claimed she was being held captive in secret videos.

From BBC • Jun. 4, 2026

Before he won the presidency, Mr. Lee was on trial for allegedly funneling $8 million in secret funds to the North.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 1, 2026

I decide then that I will never mention my mother to him—but all the while I’ll continue my search in secret, and when the moment is right, I’ll yank the truth right out of him.

From "Hurricane Child" by Kheryn Callender

in secret

Example Sentences

Related Words