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in privacy in private in the background in the dark on the Q.T. reserved silent tight-lipped undercover unforthcoming withdrawn zipped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.

The contents of a secretive security pact between China and the Solomon Islands will remain undisclosed due to legal restrictions, the Pacific nation's new government told AFP on Thursday.

From Barron's • Jun. 11, 2026

Rico’s assistance comes at a price: Kendal must assist a fledgling agent who’s infiltrated a secretive and seemingly nefarious tech company.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 5, 2026

Their second day of meetings was held at Zhongnanhai, an imperial garden and lake district that has served as the secretive seat of power for the Chinese Communist Party since the revolution of 1949.

From Los Angeles Times • May 15, 2026

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

From BBC • May 6, 2026

The woods were in full chlorophyll-choked glory now, which made them seem even more pressing and secretive.

From "A Walk in the Woods" by Bill Bryson

Vocabulary lists containing secretive

Lesson 2

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