Veiled: meaning, definitions and examples

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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

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

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