Undercover: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when someone is employed to observe or investigate in secrecy, often in law enforcement or journalism.

• The detective went undercover to infiltrate the criminal organization
• The journalist worked undercover to expose the illegal activities

Used for operations, actions, or missions that are done secretly, often for military or espionage purposes.

• The government conducted covert operations to gather intelligence
• The spy was involved in a covert mission

Used for information, actions, or objects that are intentionally kept unknown or concealed.

• They had a secret meeting to discuss the project
• The recipe for the famous sauce is a closely guarded secret

Used when something is placed out of sight or not easily found, generally not referring to people.

• The treasure was hidden under the old oak tree
• The key was hidden behind the painting

Used when someone or something is altered in appearance to conceal identity or purpose.

• She attended the party disguised as a famous actress
• The thief was disguised as a security guard

Note: 'undercover' is listed twice in your input. See above entry for context and examples.

• Repeated for clarification

Used when an action is done secretly and often involves some level of disguise or deception, often in military or intelligence contexts.

• The operation was conducted covertly to avoid international scrutiny
• He obtained the information covertly to avoid raising suspicion

Refers to doing something without others knowing, not necessarily with a negative connotation. This term is broader and can be used in more everyday situations.

• She secretly planned a surprise party for her friend
• He secretly hoped to get the promotion

Implies doing something in a very quiet, careful, and sneaky manner to avoid detection. Often used in contexts requiring physical silence and cautious movements.

• The cat moved stealthily through the grass
• The thieves entered the building stealthily to avoid setting off the alarms

When an action is done in a secretive manner to avoid detection, usually associated with activities that may be illicit or forbidden.

• They met clandestinely to discuss their plans
• The documents were passed clandestinely to prevent them from being intercepted