noun
Uncommon
espionage
EHS-pee-uh-nahzh
Espionage (noun) means the practice of spying or using spies to gather secret information, especially for a government or organization. Example: “The agent was arrested on charges of espionage.”
noun
1
The practice of spying or using spies to gather secret information, especially for a government or organization.
"The agent was arrested on charges of espionage."
"Corporate espionage cost the company millions in stolen trade secrets."
How to use espionage
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishSpying — secretly gathering information, usually for a government, military, or company.
Common pairings
corporate espionage
act of espionage
espionage ring
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Word forms
- Plural
- espionages
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The agent was arrested on charges of _____.
Etymology
From French espionnage, from espionner, "to spy," ultimately from a Germanic root meaning "to peek" or "to watch closely" — the same root behind "spy."
Synonyms
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Rhymes for espionage
See all rhymes for espionage →Frequently asked questions
What does “espionage” mean?
The word “espionage” means the practice of spying or using spies to gather secret information, especially for a government or organization. In plain terms, spying — secretly gathering information, usually for a government, military, or company.
How do you pronounce “espionage”?
“Espionage” is pronounced EHS-pee-uh-nahzh (/ˈɛs.pi.əˌnɑːʒ/ in IPA).
How do you use “espionage” in a sentence?
Here is “espionage” used in a sentence: “The agent was arrested on charges of espionage.”
What part of speech is “espionage”?
“Espionage” is a noun.
Where does the word “espionage” come from?
The word “espionage” comes from French. From French espionnage, from espionner, "to spy," ultimately from a Germanic root meaning "to peek" or "to watch closely" — the same root behind "spy.".
Is “espionage” a common word?
“Espionage” is an uncommon word in modern English.
