Stealth: meaning, definitions and examples

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stealth

[stɛlθ ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

technology

The act of moving, proceeding, or acting in a covert way.

Synonyms

clandestineness, furtiveness, secrecy.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
stealth	Typically used when describing movements that are quiet and careful to avoid detection. Often associated with military or covert operations. The spy moved with stealth through the dark alley. The animal approached its prey with incredible stealth.
secrecy	Refers to the state of keeping something secret or hidden from others. It is often used in both personal and professional contexts without inherently negative or positive connotations. The project was developed under a veil of secrecy. Her secrecy about the surprise party was impressive.
clandestineness	Used when referring to activities or operations carried out in secret, often for political, military, or illegal purposes. It has a formal tone. The clandestineness of their meetings ensured that no one knew about their plans. He specialized in the clandestine operations of the agency.
furtiveness	Describes actions that are secretive and suggestive of nervousness, guilt, or the desire to avoid attention. Carries a somewhat negative connotation. His furtiveness made everyone suspicious of his intentions. She cast a furtive glance at the exit before sneaking out.

Examples of usage

The spy used stealth to infiltrate the enemy base unnoticed.
The stealth technology of the aircraft made it difficult to detect on radar.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

video games

The ability to avoid detection or engage enemies without being noticed.

Synonyms

camouflage, invisibility, sneakiness.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
stealth	Ideal for situations where someone or something needs to move without being noticed, often used in tactical or strategic scenarios. The spy moved with such stealth that no one noticed him entering the building. In the world of military operations, stealth is often more valuable than speed.
sneakiness	This word often carries a negative connotation and is used to describe someone who acts in a secretive, sly, or deceptive manner. Her sneakiness made it difficult to trust her completely. The thief's sneakiness helped him avoid capture for years.
invisibility	Typically used in a more literal or fantastical context where something or someone cannot be seen at all. Often found in science fiction or magical settings. The scientist invented a device that could grant the user temporary invisibility. Harry Potter used his cloak of invisibility to sneak around Hogwarts.
camouflage	Used primarily when describing the method or technique of blending with the surroundings, often related to clothing, objects, or animals. The soldiers wore camouflage to blend in with the forest environment. The chameleon is known for its natural camouflage abilities.

Examples of usage

The character in the game has high stealth, allowing them to sneak past enemies.
Using stealth in the game is essential for completing missions undetected.

^{Context #3 | Adjective}

general

Acting in a secretive or sneaky manner.

Synonyms

covert, secretive, sneaky.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
stealth	Used when talking about moving or acting in a way that avoids detection, often in a military or technological context. The new aircraft has advanced stealth technology She moved with stealth through the dark room
sneaky	Refers to actions done in a sly or deceitful manner, often with negative connotations implying dishonesty. He made a sneaky attempt to look at the answers during the test The sneaky cat stole the fish from the table
covert	Applied in situations involving secret actions or operations, typically used in military or espionage settings. The government carried out a covert operation to gather intelligence The spy communicated using covert signals
secretive	Describes a person who tends to keep their thoughts, intentions, or actions hidden from others, often hinting at mistrust or mystery. He was very secretive about his plans for the weekend The group was known for its secretive meetings

Examples of usage

The ninja moved with stealth to surprise his opponent.
The thief operated with stealth to avoid detection.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'stealth' comes from the Old English word 'stelas', meaning 'to steal or to take away', capturing the essence of something hidden.
It originally referred to a cunning and secretive way of moving, highlighting the importance of discretion.
The term became popular in the 15th century, growing in use through literature and military terminology.

Military Applications

Stealth technology is designed to make vehicles less visible to radar, infrared, sonar, and other detection methods.
Famous stealth aircraft, like the F-117 Nighthawk, revolutionized aerial combat by being able to evade radar detection.
Military strategies often emphasize stealth to gain a tactical advantage, allowing forces to operate without being detected.

Animals

Many predators, such as lions and owls, rely on stealth to hunt, using quiet and slow movements to approach their prey.
Certain species of octopus can change their color and texture to blend into their surroundings and hide from both prey and predators.
The principle of stealth in nature showcases evolutionary adaptations that enhance survival by avoiding detection.

Pop Culture

Video games such as 'Assassin’s Creed' and 'Metal Gear Solid' focus heavily on stealth mechanics, requiring players to avoid detection.
Stealthy characters, like spies and ninjas, are popular in movies and books, often portrayed as cunning and resourceful.
The concept of stealth has been embraced in various genres of film, from action-packed thrillers to intricate heist films.

Psychology

The use of stealth can also refer to psychological tactics in social interactions, where individuals might choose to hide their true intentions.
Research indicates that stealth in negotiation and decision-making can lead to better outcomes by avoiding confrontation.
The psychological principle of 'social stealth' involves becoming unnoticed in social situations to avoid emotional upheaval.

Translations

Translations of the word "stealth" in other languages:

🇵🇹 furtividade

🇮🇳 चुपके

🇩🇪 Heimlichkeit

🇮🇩 sembunyi

🇺🇦 непомітність

🇵🇱 ukrycie

🇯🇵 隠密 (おんみつ)

🇫🇷 furtivité

🇪🇸 sigilo

🇹🇷 gizlilik

🇰🇷 은밀함

🇸🇦 تخفي

🇨🇿 utajení

🇸🇰 utajenie

🇨🇳 隐身 (yǐnshēn)

🇸🇮 prikritost

🇮🇸 leynimennska

🇰🇿 жасырындық

🇬🇪 უჩინარი

🇦🇿 gizlilik

🇲🇽 sigilo

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,640, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

...
20637 disclaim
20638 immobility
20639 disgruntled
20640 stealth
20641 disarm
20642 thrived
20643 prolapse
...