Definition

Describing something that is done secretly or in a hidden way, often to avoid notice or attention.

Example

The subreptitious actions of the spy went unnoticed by everyone around him.

Conversation

Did you hear about his subreptitious plan to skip the meeting?

Yeah, I can't believe he thought he could get away with that.

It's so sneaky of him to try and hide it from everyone.

I guess he just didn't want to face the consequences.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Subreptitious is formed from "sub-" (meaning under) and "reptitius" (from "reptare", meaning to creep or crawl). The word describes something that is done in a sneaky or stealthy manner, as if creeping in under the radar.

Memory Tip

Think of something happening 'under' ('sub-') the surface, like a sneaky action that 'creeps' ('reptare') in without being noticed.

Visually Confused Words