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Incognito Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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incognito

[ˌɪnˈkɒɡnɪtəʊ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adverb

browsing the internet

Without revealing one's identity or true intentions.

Synonyms

anonymously, discreetly, privately.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
incognito

Used when someone is trying to hide their identity, often in public or official situations.

  • The celebrity traveled incognito to avoid paparazzi.
  • The spy attended the event incognito.
anonymously

Used when someone does not want their name or identity known, typically in writing or online contexts.

  • The whistleblower submitted the report anonymously.
  • Users can leave comments anonymously on the forum.
privately

Used when actions or communication happen away from public view, often involving a degree of confidentiality.

  • They discussed the matter privately in the office.
  • I prefer to handle these issues privately, rather than in a meeting.
discreetly

Used when someone acts in a way that avoids attracting attention, either to themselves or to what they are doing.

  • She discreetly left the party early.
  • He discreetly handed over the envelope without anyone noticing.

Examples of usage

  • I prefer to browse incognito so that my search history remains private.
  • She decided to travel incognito to avoid being recognized.
Context #2 | Noun

persona

An assumed or false identity.

Synonyms

alias, disguise, pseudonym.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
incognito

Used when someone is trying to remain anonymous or hidden, especially in public places. Often used for celebrities or individuals who do not want to be recognized.

  • The actor traveled incognito to avoid the paparazzi.
  • She attended the party incognito to avoid any awkward encounters.
alias

Refers to a false or different name used by someone, often for clandestine or criminal activities.

  • The spy operated under the alias 'John Smith'.
  • The thief had several aliases to evade the police.
pseudonym

A fictitious name used by authors or artists to mask their true identity. Common in literature and art.

  • The famous writer used a pseudonym to maintain privacy.
  • Many artists use pseudonyms to create separate identities for different genres of work.
disguise

Refers to altering one's appearance to be unrecognizable, often through clothing, makeup, or masks. Used in various contexts, from playful to deceptive.

  • She wore a wig as part of her disguise.
  • The undercover agent was in disguise to gather information.

Examples of usage

  • The celebrity traveled under an incognito to avoid paparazzi.
  • He adopted an incognito to protect his real identity.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • Characters in stories often go incognito to solve mysteries or escape danger, adding excitement to the plot.
  • Famous literary figures like detective Sherlock Holmes often disguise themselves to gather clues without revealing their identity.

Pop Culture

  • Many celebrities go incognito, wearing hats and sunglasses, to enjoy a day out without being recognized.
  • Movies often feature plots where characters assume false identities for comedic or dramatic effect.

Technology

  • In web browsing, 'incognito mode' allows users to surf the internet without saving their history, providing privacy.
  • Online platforms use this concept to let users engage without revealing their true identities.

Psychology

  • People may choose to go incognito in social situations to avoid the pressures of societal expectations or judgment.
  • Faking a different identity can affect behavior, leading to temporary feelings of liberation or anxiety.

Origin of 'incognito'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from Latin, where 'incognito' means 'unknown' or 'unrecognized.'
  • It is formed from 'in-' meaning 'not' and 'cognitus,' which means 'known.'

The word 'incognito' originated from the Latin word 'incognitus', which means 'unknown' or 'unrecognized'. It was first recorded in English in the early 17th century. The term was initially used in the context of incognito appearances of royalty or celebrities to conceal their identities. Over time, it has evolved to encompass the idea of anonymity and secrecy in various aspects of life.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #27,233, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.