covert
39 synonyms and 0 antonyms for covert, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Adjective — Secret or hidden; done in a concealed way.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use covert
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From Old French covert, meaning "covered" — the same root as the verb "cover."
Full origin of covert →Frequently asked questions
What does “covert” mean?
The word “covert” means secret or hidden; done in a concealed way. In plain terms, secret or concealed, especially for operations, glances, or actions people aren't meant to notice.
How do you pronounce “covert”?
“Covert” is pronounced KOH-vurt (/ˈkoʊvɚt/ in IPA).
How do you use “covert” in a sentence?
Here is “covert” used in a sentence: “The agency ran a covert operation to gather intelligence.”
What is another word for “covert”?
Words with a similar meaning to “covert” include abstruse, behind the scenes, backroom, catlike, stealth and clandestine.
What part of speech is “covert”?
Depending on how it is used, “covert” can be an adjective and a noun.
Where does the word “covert” come from?
The word “covert” comes from Old French. From Old French covert, meaning "covered" — the same root as the verb "cover.".
Is “covert” a common word?
“Covert” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “covert” have?
“Covert” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: secret or hidden; done in a concealed way.
What is the difference between "covert" describing an action and "covert" as a bird term?
As an adjective, "covert" describes something secret or hidden, done in a concealed way, such as a covert operation. As a noun in ornithology, a covert is a small feather that covers the base of a larger flight feather, an entirely unrelated technical sense specific to bird anatomy.
What is a "covert" in hunting terminology?
In hunting contexts, a covert refers to a thicket or dense area of undergrowth where game animals hide, distinct from the adjective sense of "covert" meaning secret or hidden.
Is "covert" more formal than "secret"?
"Covert" often carries a more specialized or formal tone than "secret," frequently appearing in military, intelligence, or operational contexts, whereas "secret" is the more general, everyday term for anything hidden.