Secretive

/ˈsiː.krə.tɪv/

Meaning & Definition

adjective

Tending or having a tendency to conceal feelings, thoughts, or intentions; inclined to keep secrets.

The secretive nature of the organization made it hard for outsiders to understand its true purpose.

Not revealing what one thinks or feels; reserved.

He was always secretive about his personal life, rarely sharing details with friends.

Characterized by secrecy; concealed.

The negotiations were conducted in a secretive manner, away from the public eye.

Early 20th century: from secret + -ive.

keep something under wraps

To keep something secret or hidden.

tight-lipped

Being secretive or unwilling to speak.

bury the lead

To intentionally conceal important information.

secret

Something that is kept hidden.

conceal

To keep something from being seen or known.

Cloak-and-dagger

Their cloak-and-dagger tactics made everyone suspicious.

In the shadows

He operates in the shadows, always secretive about his dealings.