Cove: meaning, definitions and examples

A small, sheltered recess in the shoreline. It's usually used to describe a more secluded area of water, often surrounded by cliffs or hills.

• We found a quiet cove to relax and swim in.
• The pirates hid their treasure in a secret cove.

A small arm of the sea, a lake, or a river. Inlets are often narrow and are a good spot for boats to enter and leave larger bodies of water.

• The kayakers navigated through the rocky inlet.
• The inlet was filled with fish during high tide.

A broad inlet of the sea where the land curves inward. Bays are larger than coves but smaller than gulfs and are often good spots for harbors.

• The city is located on the southern shore of the bay.
• They spent the afternoon sailing around the bay.

A place on the coast where ships may moor in shelter. It often involves infrastructure like docks, piers, and other facilities for ships.

• The ship entered the harbor just as the sun was setting.
• They stayed overnight in a small harbor town.

A cove is often used to describe a small, sheltered bay on the coast of an ocean or lake. It is a peaceful and picturesque place, usually with a natural beauty.

• We discovered a charming cove where we could swim and sunbathe
• The boat anchored in a hidden cove for the night

A hideout is a secret place where someone goes to hide, often from the authorities or other pursuers. It has a sense of mystery or escapism and can have a negative connotation.

• The outlaws found a hideout deep in the mountains
• The children built a hideout in the backyard to play in

A den can refer to a secluded or cozy room in a house, often used for relaxation or hobbies. It can also refer to an animal's lair or a secretive, hidden place.

• He enjoys reading books in his private den
• The fox returned to its den in the forest

A retreat is typically a quiet and peaceful place where someone goes to relax or meditate, often away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. It can also be used to describe an organized event where people withdraw for a period of reflection or relaxation.

• She went to a countryside retreat to unwind and recharge
• The company organized a weekend retreat for its employees to foster team building

This word is not relevant as a synonym for hide. It refers to a small, sheltered bay or inlet along the coast.

• They found a quiet cove to anchor their boat
• The cove was surrounded by high cliffs

This is used in general situations when something is put out of sight or kept secret. It can be used both for objects and emotions.

• She decided to hide the gift in the closet
• He couldn’t hide his excitement

This is appropriate when intentionally hiding something in a way that it is difficult to discover. It is often used in formal or serious contexts.

• He concealed the evidence behind a false wall
• She tried to conceal her emotions in the meeting

This is used when something is hidden by putting something in front of it. Often, this can be information, emotions, or actual coverings.

• She wore glasses to mask her identity
• He tried to mask his disappointment with a smile