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Definition of covertly
covertly
/ˈkoʊ.vɚt.li/
co · vert · ly
Adjective:covert
covertly Lexical Profile
CEFR
C1
Grade
10
Tier
2
Usage
Top 10k
Syllables
3
covertly Game Scores & Validity
Scrabble US
Scrabble UK
WWF
Wordle Guess
• adverb
1
In a way that is not openly acknowledged, displayed, or easily noticed; secretly.
Example
"The journalists covertly recorded the meeting to expose the corporate fraud."
Synonyms
View all synonyms for covertly Antonyms
View all antonyms for covertlyWord Origin & Etymology
Formed from the adjective 'covert' plus the adverbial suffix '-ly'. 'Covert' entered Middle English via Old French from the past participle of 'covrir' (to cover), ultimately from Latin 'cooperire' (to cover completely).
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Covertly. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/covertly