reveal
18 synonyms and 3 antonyms for reveal, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Verb — To show or make known something that was hidden or secret.
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.
Antonyms
How to use reveal
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From Latin revelare, "to uncover" — from re- ("back") + velare ("to cover"), from velum ("veil").
Full origin of reveal →Frequently asked questions
What does “reveal” mean?
The word “reveal” means to show or make known something that was hidden or secret. In plain terms, to uncover or make known something that was hidden.
How do you pronounce “reveal”?
“Reveal” is pronounced rih-VEEL (/ɹɪˈvil/ in IPA).
How do you use “reveal” in a sentence?
Here is “reveal” used in a sentence: “The magician revealed how the trick was done.”
What is another word for “reveal”?
Words with a similar meaning to “reveal” include bare, bewray, betray, display, expose and find out.
What is the opposite of “reveal”?
The opposite of “reveal” — its antonyms — are cover, cover up and hide.
What part of speech is “reveal”?
Depending on how it is used, “reveal” can be a verb and a noun.
Where does the word “reveal” come from?
The word “reveal” comes from Latin. From Latin revelare, "to uncover" — from re- ("back") + velare ("to cover"), from velum ("veil").
Is “reveal” a common word?
“Reveal” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A2 level.
What is the difference between reveal and disclose?
Both mean to make something known, but disclose is more formal and often official — disclosing financial details or a conflict of interest. Reveal is broader and more vivid, suggesting something hidden is now shown, sometimes dramatically. You disclose information; you reveal a secret or a surprise.
What is the opposite of reveal?
The main opposites are conceal, hide, and cover. To conceal is to keep something out of sight or knowledge, the exact reverse of revealing it. Related antonyms include mask, disguise, and withhold — all about keeping something secret rather than bringing it into the open.
What is an example of reveal?
Examples include a magician revealing how a trick is done, a couple revealing a baby's name, an investigation revealing hidden costs, or data revealing a surprising trend. In each case, something previously hidden, secret, or unknown is brought to light and made known.