reveal
rih-VEEL
Reveal (verb) means to show or make known something that was hidden or secret. Example: “The magician revealed how the trick was done.”
verb
1
To show or make known something that was hidden or secret.
"The magician revealed how the trick was done."
"She finally revealed her true feelings."
"The test results will reveal whether the plant needs more water."
noun
1
A moment where something previously hidden is uncovered or made known, especially in a show or story.
"The show's big reveal left viewers stunned."
"The cake's reveal at the party made everyone gasp and cheer."
"Fans waited all season for the character's surprise reveal."
How to use reveal
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo uncover or make known something that was hidden.
Common pairings
reveal a secret
the big reveal
reveal the truth
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Word forms
- Plural
- reveals
- Third person singular
- reveals
- Past tense
- revealed
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The magician _____ how the trick was done.
Etymology
From Latin revelare, "to uncover" — from re- ("back") + velare ("to cover"), from velum ("veil").
Synonyms
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Related words
Rhymes for reveal
See all rhymes for 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.
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