Stealthy: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when actions are done in a quiet and secret way to avoid being noticed.

• The predator moved in a stealthy manner, inching closer to its unsuspecting prey.
• He took a stealthy approach to surprise his friends.

Generally has a negative connotation, implying deceitful or underhanded behavior.

• He used a sneaky trick to win the game.
• The cat was being sneaky, trying to steal food from the counter.

Describes actions that are done in a way that attempts to avoid notice because of a feeling of guilt or belief that discovery would lead to trouble.

• She cast a furtive glance at the door, hoping no one would notice her exit.
• He took a furtive step back when he saw the police.

Refers to actions taken in secret to conceal one's intentions, often used in a military or intelligence context.

• The agency carried out a covert operation to gather intelligence.
• They created a covert signal to communicate without being detected.

Often used for activities or operations that are kept secret, usually because they are illegal or unauthorized.

• The spies held a clandestine meeting to exchange information.
• Their clandestine affair was hidden from everyone.

Used for situations where someone conceals their true identity, often in law enforcement or investigative scenarios.

• The detective went undercover to infiltrate the criminal organization.
• The journalist posed as a customer in an undercover investigation.