adj
ulterior
uhl-TEER-reer
Ulterior (adj) means Hidden or undisclosed, especially when describing a motive meant to deceive. Example: “She suspected he had an ulterior motive for being so friendly.”
adj
1
Hidden or undisclosed, especially when describing a motive meant to deceive.
"She suspected he had an ulterior motive for being so friendly."
"His generous offer masked an ulterior purpose."
How to use ulterior
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishKept hidden on purpose, usually because the real reason isn't an honest one.
Common pairings
ulterior motive
no ulterior motive
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Etymology
From Latin "ulterior", meaning "further" or "more distant" — the sense shifted to mean something concealed "beyond" what is visible.
Synonyms
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Related words
Rhymes for ulterior
See all rhymes for ulterior →Frequently asked questions
What does “ulterior” mean?
The word “ulterior” means hidden or undisclosed, especially when describing a motive meant to deceive. In plain terms, kept hidden on purpose, usually because the real reason isn't an honest one.
How do you pronounce “ulterior”?
“Ulterior” is pronounced uhl-TEER-reer (/ʌlˈtɪɚ.i.ɚ/ in IPA).
How do you use “ulterior” in a sentence?
Here is “ulterior” used in a sentence: “She suspected he had an ulterior motive for being so friendly.”
What part of speech is “ulterior”?
“Ulterior” is an adjective.
Where does the word “ulterior” come from?
The word “ulterior” comes from Latin. From Latin "ulterior", meaning "further" or "more distant" — the sense shifted to mean something concealed "beyond" what is visible.
