adj
clandestine
klan-DEHS-tihn
adj
1
Kept secret, especially because the activity is improper or illicit.
"They held a clandestine meeting away from prying eyes."
"The spy carried out several clandestine operations."
How to Use Clandestine
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishSecret, often with a hint that the secrecy is deliberate and a bit shady.
When to use it
Fairly formal; often used for espionage, affairs, or illegal activity.
Common pairings
clandestine meeting
clandestine operation
clandestine affair
Word Forms
more clandestine comparative, most clandestine superlative
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They held a _____ meeting away from prying eyes.
Etymology
From Latin clandestīnus ("secret, concealed").