Conceal

/kənˈsiːl/

Meaning & Definition

verb
to prevent something from being seen or known; to hide.
She tried to conceal her excitement when she heard the news.
to keep something secret or to keep information from being known.
He decided to conceal his true feelings about the situation.
to place out of sight.
The treasure was concealed in a secret location.
to hide (a feeling or intention).
He was unable to conceal his disappointment when he didn't get the job.

Etymology

From Middle English 'concelen', from Latin 'concelare', from 'com-' (together) + 'celare' (to hide).

Common Phrases and Expressions

conceal one's identity
to hide who one is from others
conceal the truth
to keep the reality or facts secret
conceal a weapon
to hide a weapon from view, often for security or legal reasons

Related Words

hidden
not seen or noticed; concealed.
obscure
not discovered or known about; uncertain.
secret
not known or seen by others.

Slang Meanings

keep it under wraps
He decided to keep it under wraps until the party.
lay low
She has been laying low since the incident.