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Veiled Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ‘ฐ
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veiled

[veษชld ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

hidden

concealed or disguised

Synonyms

covered, hidden, masked.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
veiled

Used to describe something that is not directly shown or expressed, often with an element of mystery or deception.

  • Her compliments were veiled with criticism.
  • The details of the project were veiled in secrecy.
hidden

Describes something that is intentionally placed out of sight or kept secret from others.

  • She kept the key hidden under a flowerpot.
  • There was a hidden compartment in the old dresser.
covered

Indicates something that is physically or figuratively placed over something else, sometimes for protection or concealment.

  • The cake was covered with a thick layer of icing.
  • He covered the car with a tarp to shield it from the rain.
masked

Refers to something that is disguised or concealed, often suggesting an effort to mislead or to hide true intentions.

  • His joy was masked by a forced smile.
  • The problems in the system were masked by temporary fixes.

Examples of usage

  • a veiled threat
  • her veiled hostility towards him
Context #2 | Adjective

clothed

wearing a veil

Synonyms

covered, draped, shrouded.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
veiled

Use when something is partially hidden or concealed, often implying subtlety or an attempt to deceive. Commonly used in metaphorical contexts to describe emotions, intentions, or messages.

  • Her veiled threats did not go unnoticed.
  • He gave a veiled explanation, avoiding full disclosure.
covered

Use when something is entirely or partially covered by another object. Suitable for physical and metaphorical meanings, often used in a neutral or factual sense.

  • The table was covered with a beautiful cloth.
  • His tracks were carefully covered.
shrouded

Use when something is covered in a way that completely hides or obscures it, often invoking a sense of mystery, secrecy, or solemnity. Common in both literal and figurative language, with a slightly negative or eerie connotation sometimes.

  • The valley was shrouded in fog.
  • The incident remains shrouded in mystery.
draped

Use when something is loosely and gracefully covered, often implying elegance or aesthetic arrangement. Commonly used in fashion and interior design.

  • She draped the scarf around her neck stylishly.
  • The curtains were draped over the windows, giving the room a cozy feel.

Examples of usage

  • a veiled bride
  • veiled women in the ceremony
Context #3 | Verb

covered

to cover with or as if with a veil

Synonyms

conceal, cover, mask.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
veiled

Used when something is partially hidden or obscured, often in a metaphorical sense, such as emotions or intentions.

  • Her comments were veiled threats
  • He gave a veiled reference to his disapproval
cover

Mostly used when one thing physically lays over or protects another thing; can also be used metaphorically to mean protecting or replacing something.

  • She covered the table with a cloth
  • They tried to cover up the mistake
conceal

Appropriate when something is being hidden intentionally or kept secret from others.

  • He tried to conceal his nervousness
  • She concealed the letter in a drawer
mask

Best used when something is being hidden or disguised, often used in the sense of hiding emotions, intentions, or identity.

  • He masked his disappointment with a smile
  • The robber wore a mask to hide his face

Examples of usage

  • she veiled her face
  • the sun veiled by clouds

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • In various cultures, veils have been used in rituals and ceremonies, often symbolizing modesty or spiritual purity.
  • Veils are significant in weddings, often symbolizing the transition from singlehood to marriage.
  • In some religions, veiling has historically been associated with humility and protection against the outside world.

Literature

  • Authors use veiling as a literary device, where characters or themes are hidden until revealed, creating suspense.
  • In classic literature, veils often symbolize mystery or unavailability of truth, enticing readers to delve deeper.
  • Famous works like 'The Scarlet Letter' utilize veils metaphorically, representing secrets and societal judgments.

Art

  • Artworks featuring veils often evoke themes of beauty and concealment, prompting viewers to reflect on what is shown versus hidden.
  • The image of a veiled figure is a popular motif, often associated with femininity and mystique in various art forms.
  • Some artists use transparent materials to create visual veils that play with light and perception, blurring the line between reality and illusion.

Psychology

  • Psychologically, veiling can represent the defense mechanisms we use to protect ourselves from emotional exposure.
  • Veils in dreams may symbolize our hidden desires or fears, highlighting the parts of ourselves we keep concealed.
  • The concept of veiling in interpersonal relationships can relate to trust dynamics, where individuals may guard their true feelings.

Origin of 'veiled'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'veiled' comes from the Latin word 'velum', which means 'a curtain' or 'a covering'.
  • In Middle English, the term evolved from 'veil', indicating something that is used to cover the face.
  • Languages around the world use similar terms; for example, in French, a veil is called 'voile', highlighting cultural connections.

The word 'veiled' originated from the Middle English 'veilen', which came from the Old French 'vรซler' meaning 'to cover'. The use of veils has been a longstanding tradition in various cultures for religious, ceremonial, or fashion purposes. Veils have often been associated with mystery, modesty, or protection.

See also: unveil, unveiling, veil, veiling.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #12,988, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.