Hidden: meaning, definitions and examples

Appropriate for general use when something is out of sight or not easily found.

• The treasure was hidden under the old oak tree.
• She kept her diary hidden in her closet.

Often used in more formal contexts or when something is deliberately kept out of view to avoid detection.

• The weapon was concealed beneath his jacket.
• She concealed her emotions well during the meeting.

Used when referring to information, objects, or activities that are intentionally kept unknown or hidden from others.

• She shared her secret with only her closest friend.
• The company kept the new product launch a secret.

Describes something that is not visible or noticed, often unintentionally.

• The path to the cave was unseen by the tourists.
• She remained unseen in the crowded room.

Used in situations that involve secrecy, often related to military operations, intelligence, or actions intended to be kept confidential.

• The spy was involved in a covert mission.
• They conducted a covert operation to gather information.

Used to describe something that is out of sight or not easily found.

• The treasure was hidden under the old oak tree.
• She kept her diary hidden in a drawer.

Often used in a more deliberate sense, suggesting intentionally keeping something out of sight.

• The weapon was concealed beneath his coat.
• He concealed his true feelings from everyone.

Implies information that is intentionally kept from others and often involves confidentiality.

• He has a secret that he has never shared with anyone.
• The meeting was held in secret.

Used in more formal or legal contexts to refer to information that has not been revealed or made public.

• The terms of the agreement remain undisclosed.
• The buyer's identity was kept undisclosed.

Used when something is not well-known, unclear, or not easily understood.

• The text was too obscure for me to understand.
• The origins of the ritual are obscure.