Secrecy Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
🤫
secrecy
[ˈsiːkrəsi ]
Definition
government operations
Secrecy refers to the practice of keeping certain information hidden or confidential, especially in the context of government operations. It is the act of concealing information from the public or other parties for various reasons, such as national security, protection of sensitive data, or maintaining an advantage over adversaries.
Synonyms
confidentiality, opacity, privacy.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| secrecy |
Used when referring to the act of keeping something hidden, often to protect sensitive or important information. Secrecy can imply a level of mystery or intrigue.
|
| confidentiality |
Commonly used in professional or legal contexts to denote the obligation to protect someone's private information or data from unauthorized access.
|
| privacy |
Usually refers to the condition of being free from public attention or the ability to keep one's personal matters and information secure and undisclosed.
|
| opacity |
Used to describe something that is not transparent or not easily understood, often in contexts where lack of clarity or transparency is being criticized.
|
Examples of usage
- Government agencies often operate with a high level of secrecy to protect classified information.
- The decision to maintain secrecy surrounding certain military operations was made to ensure the safety of personnel.
- In the world of espionage, secrecy is paramount to the success of covert missions.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Research shows that keeping secrets can increase stress levels and affect mental health.
- Secrets can create significant emotional burden, leading to feelings of isolation in individuals.
- Interestingly, sharing a secret with a trusted person can alleviate stress and foster closer relationships.
Literature
- Secrecy often serves as a key theme in classic literature, such as in Shakespeare's 'Hamlet', where hidden motives drive the plot.
- In many mystery novels, the revelation of secrets is crucial to the resolution of the story, engaging readers' curiosity.
- Authors have used secrecy to explore themes of trust and betrayal, often shaping character development.
Pop Culture
- Secrecy is a central element in many films and shows, such as in spy thrillers like 'James Bond', where information is power.
- Social media has created new forms of secrecy, with people often hiding personal details or selectively sharing information.
- The song 'Secrets' by OneRepublic encapsulates the desire to be open about hidden truths in today's society.
History
- Throughout history, councils and governments have often operated in secrecy to make decisions without public scrutiny.
- The secrecy surrounding military operations has been a longstanding strategic element in warfare.
- Cults and covert groups have thrived on secrecy, as it often attracts individuals seeking belonging or hidden knowledge.
Origin of 'secrecy'
Main points about word origin
- The word originates from the Latin 'secretus', meaning 'set apart' or 'hidden'.
- The Old French term 'secrecie' also influenced the English word, linking to the idea of privacy.
- The transition to modern English reflects the growing concern with personal privacy and confidentiality.
The word 'secrecy' originated from the Latin word 'secretus,' which means 'separate' or 'withdrawn.' The concept of secrecy has been present throughout history, playing a crucial role in various fields such as government, espionage, and personal relationships. Maintaining secrecy has been associated with power, control, and protection of information. Over time, the importance of secrecy has evolved, leading to debates about transparency, accountability, and the balance between privacy and security.
See also: secret, secretary, secrete, secretion, secretive, secretively, secretly.