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

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 notes

In plain EnglishDescribing someone or something that hides information and doesn't share much.

Common pairings

secretive about a secretive person

Word forms

more secretive comparative, most secretive superlative

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He was always _____ about his past.

Etymology

From Middle English "secretife," from "secret" plus "-ive."

Origin: Middle English

Rhymes for secretive

five give dive live olive drive alive strive derive active arrive native

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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.