# covertly

/koʊˈvɝtɫi/ (US) · /kəʊvˈɜːtli/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adverb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/covertly
Updated: 2026-05-20

## Definition

in a secret or hidden way. You use this when someone does something without others knowing it is happening.

For teachers: in a secret or hidden manner; without being openly acknowledged or observed.

## Examples

- The two countries worked covertly to reach a peace agreement.
- The spy moved through the city covertly, wearing a plain suit to avoid drawing attention to himself.
- While the official policy remained unchanged, the government operated covertly to support the local resistance, fearing that public knowledge would provoke a military response.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.