adjective
Uncommon
secretive
SEEK-rih-tihv
Secretive (adjective) means Inclined to keep things hidden and reveal little information. Example: “He was always secretive about his past.”
adjective
1
Inclined to keep things hidden and reveal little information.
"He was always secretive about his past."
"The company has been secretive about its new product launch."
How to use secretive
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishDescribing someone or something that hides information and doesn't share much.
Common pairings
secretive about
a secretive person
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Word forms
- Comparative
- more secretive
- Superlative
- most secretive
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
He was always _____ about his past.
Etymology
From Middle English "secretife," from "secret" plus "-ive."
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for secretive
See all rhymes for secretive →Frequently asked questions
What does “secretive” mean?
The word “secretive” means inclined to keep things hidden and reveal little information. In plain terms, describing someone or something that hides information and doesn't share much.
How do you pronounce “secretive”?
“Secretive” is pronounced SEEK-rih-tihv (/ˈsiːkɹɪtɪv/ in IPA).
How do you use “secretive” in a sentence?
Here is “secretive” used in a sentence: “He was always secretive about his past.”
What part of speech is “secretive”?
“Secretive” is an adjective.
Where does the word “secretive” come from?
The word “secretive” comes from Middle English. From Middle English "secretife," from "secret" plus "-ive.".
Is “secretive” a common word?
“Secretive” is an uncommon word in modern English.
