Definition

In a way that is not openly acknowledged or displayed; done in secret.

Example

The spy covertly gathered information without anyone noticing.

Conversation

Did you see how she covertly slipped that note to him?

Yeah, I noticed that too; it was pretty sneaky!

I wonder what it said, she was so careful about it.

Probably something important; she really knows how to keep things under wraps.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Covertly → It is formed from "covert" (from Old French *covert*, meaning covered or concealed) and "-ly" (meaning in a manner of). The word "covertly" means in a manner that is concealed or hidden.

Memory Tip

Think of something being 'covered' ('covert') and done 'in a manner' ('-ly') that is not easily seen — that's why covertly means doing something secretly.

Visually Confused Words