Espion (en. Spy)

/ɛspjɔ̃/

Meaning & Definition

EnglishFrench
noun
Individual engaged to obtain secret or confidential information.
The spy managed to infiltrate the enemy organization.
L'espion a réussi à infiltrer l'organisation ennemie.
Person who discreetly monitors the activities of others.
She felt like a spy because of her secretive behaviors.
Elle se sentait comme un espion à cause de ses comportements secrets.
One who collects intelligence on behalf of a state.
The spy was arrested by the local police.
L'espion a été arrêté par la police locale.

Etymology

Derived from the Latin 'spionem', which means 'to spy'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

industrial espionage
Secret practice of obtaining commercial information.
espionnage industriel
to be a spy
To act discreetly to collect information.
être un espion
spy in the pay of
Spy hired by an entity or government.
espion à la solde de

Related Words

mouse trap
Device for capturing or monitoring people.
souricière
infiltration
The act of entering a secret place to observe or gather data.
infiltration
intelligence
Information obtained through espionage.
renseignement

Slang Meanings

Informant
He is known as a small-time informant in the scene.
Il est connu comme un petit informateur dans le milieu.
Sneaky
He always acts in a sneaky manner, like a true spy.
Il agit toujours de manière sournoise, comme un vrai espion.