Definition

Describing something that was meant to be kept secret but has been made known to others, often without permission.

Example

The leaked information caused a scandal in the company.

Conversation

Did you hear about that leaked document from the company?

Yeah, I saw it online — it was pretty surprising!

I can’t believe they let something so sensitive get leaked like that.

Right? It makes you wonder how secure their information really is.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

To have allowed a substance, such as liquid or gas, to escape from a container or to have made secret information known.

Example

The information was leaked to the press before the official announcement.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you hear about the information that leaked from the meeting?

Yeah, I saw it online. It was surprising!

I can't believe someone would let that happen.

Root Explanation

Leaked → The word 'leaked' comes from the Old English 'leacian', meaning to leak or to flow out. It describes the action of a substance escaping or flowing out from a container or barrier.

Memory Tip

Think of something 'flowing out' — that's what 'leaked' means, as it describes the escape of a liquid or gas.

Visually Confused Words