Surreptitious: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when something is done secretly, especially because it would not be approved of.

• He took a surreptitious glance at her notes during the exam.
• Their surreptitious meetings continued every week.

A broad term used to describe anything that is intentionally kept hidden from others.

• She told him a secret that no one else knew.
• They worked on the project in secret to surprise their boss.

Describes activities that are kept secret, especially because they are illegal.

• They held clandestine talks to negotiate the secret deal.
• The organization was involved in several clandestine operations.

Refers to actions that are hidden or not openly acknowledged, often used in military or spy contexts.

• The agency conducted a covert operation to gather intelligence.
• He was part of a covert group working on a top-secret project.

Describes actions performed cautiously and secretly to avoid detection, often used with a focus on physical movement.

• The cat moved in a stealthy manner, ready to pounce on the mouse.
• He made a stealthy approach to the building, trying not to be seen.

Implying a sense of nervousness or guilt about being caught. Often used to describe actions that are sneaky or sly.

• She cast a furtive glance over her shoulder, making sure no one was watching.
• His furtive behavior aroused suspicion among his coworkers.