Covert
mediumNeutral toneKOH-vert
adjective
Definition
Not openly acknowledged or displayed; secret
Memory hook
COVERT = COVERED up - hidden under a cover, like a spy's secret operations.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“The spy conducted covert operations behind enemy lines.”
“There was a covert campaign to discredit the candidate.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“The spy conducted ______ operations behind enemy lines.”
Show answer
covert
Synonyms
Antonyms
Categories
GRE Tip
Covert is a medium-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "clandestine" or "surreptitious" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "overt".
Related GRE Words
stealthy
Behaving or done in a cautious and surreptitious manner
clandestine
Kept secret or done secretively, especially because illicit
surreptitious
Kept secret, especially because it would not be approved of
latent
present but not visible or active; dormant
shrouded
Covered or enveloped so as to conceal from view
veiled
Partially concealed or disguised
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