Finesentence

Uncover Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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uncover

un-cov-er

🇺🇸 /ənˈkəvɝ/ · 🇬🇧 /ʌnkˈʌvɐ/

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

to reveal

To uncover means to reveal something that was hidden or secret. It can also mean to remove a cover or lid from something.

Synonyms

discover, expose, reveal.

Examples of usage

  • The investigation uncovered new evidence.
  • She uncovered the truth about her past.
Context #2 | Verb

to expose

To uncover can also mean to expose something that was previously covered or hidden.

Synonyms

discover, expose, reveal.

Examples of usage

  • She uncovered the hidden treasure.
  • He uncovered the truth behind the conspiracy.

Translations

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

Quick facts about “uncover”

Uncover is a 3-syllable verb (un-cov-er). It is pronounced /ənˈkəvɝ/ in American English and /ʌnkˈʌvɐ/ in British English. On finesentence.com it has 2 meanings, 6 synonyms, and translations into 21 languages. It ranks #13,623 among the most common English words.

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“uncover” in pop culture

  • In detective shows, uncovering clues often leads to solving crimes, making it a key plot point.
  • Documentaries often aim to uncover truths about events, people, or issues that are little known.
  • Reality TV shows can feature moments where contestants uncover surprising truths about themselves or others.

“uncover” in science

  • Uncovering is crucial in archaeology, where digging reveals artifacts from ancient civilizations.
  • In medicine, researchers strive to uncover new information about diseases to improve treatments.
  • Scientific discoveries often begin with the need to uncover the unknown in nature or technology.

“uncover” in literature

  • Many stories are built around characters who uncover secrets, which drives the plot forward.
  • Authors may use the theme of uncovering in mysteries, leading readers through clues to the final revelation.
  • Uncovering hidden meanings in poetry often leads to deeper appreciation of the text.

“uncover” in psychology

  • In therapy, individuals often work to uncover underlying emotions or beliefs that affect their behavior.
  • The process of uncovering one’s identity can be crucial during adolescence and personal development.
  • Research in psychology seeks to uncover how our minds work, revealing the complexities of thought and behavior.

Origin of 'uncover'

Main points about word origin

  • The word originates from the Old English 'uncofan', meaning to take off a cover.
  • It combines the prefix 'un-' (not) with 'cover', which means to conceal something.
  • The concept of uncovering suggests revealing something that's been hidden or secret.

The word 'uncover' originated from the combination of 'un-' (meaning 'not') and 'cover'. It has been used in the English language since the 14th century, evolving over time to its current usage as a verb meaning to reveal or expose something.

See also: cover, coverage, coverall, coveralls, covered, covering, coverings, coverlet, covers, covert, recover, uncoverable, uncovered, uncovering, uncoverings, undercover.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,623, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.