Definitions

secretive

[see-kri-tiv, si-kree-] / ˈsi krɪ tɪv, sɪˈkri- /

ADJECTIVE

uncommunicative

Synonyms

STRONGEST

covert enigmatic reticent taciturn

WEAK

backstairs buttoned-up cagey clammed up close close-mouthed cryptic feline furtive hushed in chambers in privacy in private in the background in the dark on the Q.T. reserved silent tight-lipped undercover unforthcoming withdrawn zipped

Antonyms

STRONGEST

communicative

WEAK

forthright honest open

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

One division of MSL, the secretive unit called TBD Lab, developed the model that would become Muse Spark.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 4, 2026

But secretive military moves are also afoot, with plans for upgraded or new runways for both military and civilian use.

From Barron's • May 18, 2026

Before a lunch at Zhongnanhai, the secretive headquarters of the Chinese Communist Party, Trump asked Xi if he was special for getting to visit the compound.

From Los Angeles Times • May 17, 2026

The groups are "explicitly militant" and "not secretive", he adds.

From BBC • May 6, 2026

He was secretive about it; I do not know exactly why.

From "Z for Zachariah" by Robert C. O’Brien

Vocabulary lists containing secretive

Lesson 2

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