reveal

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.

“Reveal” is pronounced rih-VEEL (/ɹɪˈvil/ in IPA).

Here is “reveal” used in a sentence: “The magician revealed how the trick was done.”

Words with a similar meaning to “reveal” include bare, bewray, betray, display, expose and find out.

The opposite of “reveal” — its antonyms — are cover, cover up and hide.

Depending on how it is used, “reveal” can be a verb and a noun.

The word “reveal” comes from Latin. From Latin revelare, "to uncover" — from re- ("back") + velare ("to cover"), from velum ("veil").

“Reveal” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A2 level.

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.

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.

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.