English Reference
adjective · verb

uncovered

adj. · v.
US /ənˈkəvɝd/ UK /ʌnkˈʌvəd/ un·cov·ered

  1. 01 B1 Intermediate

    adj.not having a lid, roof, or cloth over it.

    adj.lacking a physical covering, lid, or protective layer.

    Simple

    The uncovered pot of soup cooled down quickly on the counter.

    In context

    The archaeological team left the uncovered ruins exposed to the elements while they waited for the arrival of the preservation specialists.

  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate

    v.the past action of finding something that was hidden or secret.

    v.the past tense or past participle of 'uncover', referring to the act of revealing something previously hidden or unknown.

    Simple

    The investigation uncovered a lot of evidence about the crime.

    In context

    The journalists uncovered a series of financial discrepancies that eventually led to the resignation of the entire board of directors.

  3. 03 C1 Advanced FormalTechnical

    adj.not protected by insurance or a financial guarantee.

    adj.lacking insurance coverage or financial security against potential loss.

    Simple

    He was worried because his medical expenses were uncovered by his current plan.

    In context

    The auditor noted that several high-value assets remained uncovered by the firm's primary liability policy, posing a significant risk to investors.

  4. 04 C2 Proficiency LiteraryArchaic

    adj.not wearing a hat or head covering.

    adj.having the head bare; not wearing a hat, cap, or veil.

    Simple

    The men stood with uncovered heads as the parade passed by.

    In context

    In the old photographs, the mourners are seen standing with uncovered heads despite the bitter winter wind.

    bareheaded

Usage uncovered evidence

A McGill University–led study has now uncovered a previously unknown ability of T cells that could change our understanding of how long-term immunity develops.

Phys.org· 18 Aug 2026

Researchers have uncovered a surprising way triple-negative breast cancer may turn the body against itself.

ScienceDaily· 17 Aug 2026

From un- + covered.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated