Definition

The quality of being secretive or sneaky, often to avoid being noticed or detected.

Example

His furtiveness made everyone suspicious of his actions.

Conversation

Have you noticed how some people move with such furtiveness?

Yeah, it’s almost like they’re trying to hide something.

Exactly! It makes you wonder what they’re up to.

Right? It definitely adds an air of mystery to their actions.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Furtiveness → It is formed from "furtivus" (from Latin, meaning secret or stealthy) and the suffix "-ness" (meaning the state or quality of). The word "furtiveness" refers to the quality of being secretive or stealthy.

Memory Tip

Think of the Latin word for secret ('furtivus') to remember that 'furtiveness' describes the quality of being secretive or stealthy.

Visually Confused Words