Search Dictionary
Definition of secretive

secretive

/ˈsiːkrətɪv/
se · cre · tive
Adverb:secretively
JUMP TO:

secretive Lexical Profile

secretive Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Inclined to conceal feelings, intentions, or information from others; not open or forthcoming.

Example

"The tech company remained highly secretive about the features of its upcoming smartphone."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for secretive
Antonyms
View all antonyms for secretive

Word Nuance & Usage

While 'secret' describes information or objects that are kept hidden, 'secretive' describes a person, organization, or behavior characterized by a habitual inclination to conceal feelings and intentions.

• Nearby Words

secretary
secrete
secretion
secretive
secretively
secretiveness
secretly

Word Origin & Etymology

First recorded in the mid-19th century, formed from the English root 'secret' (from Latin 'secretus', meaning 'set apart' or 'hidden') plus the suffix '-ive'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Secretive. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/secretive
Built for writers, students, and competitive word game players, Wordmom combines an uncluttered English dictionary and thesaurus with fast, pattern-based word finders so you can verify definitions, synonyms, and high-scoring tile plays in one place.
Word Games & Solvers
Word FinderScrabble Word FinderWords With Friends CheatWordle SolverAnagram Solver
Dictionary & Reference
DictionarySynonymsAntonymsWords
Community
Contact UsEditorial PolicyPrivacy PolicyTerms and Conditions
© 2016–2026 Wordmom Network. All rights reserved. Made with for word lovers everywhere.
Disclaimer: SCRABBLE® is a registered trademark. All intellectual property rights in and to the game are owned in the U.S.A. and Canada by Hasbro Inc., and throughout the rest of the world by J.W. Spear & Sons Limited of Maidenhead, Berkshire, England, a subsidiary of Mattel Inc. Mattel and Spear are not affiliated with Hasbro. Words With Friends® is a registered trademark of Zynga Inc. Wordle® is a registered trademark of The New York Times Company. Other referenced game titles and tournament lexicon codes (including NASPA NWL and WESPA/HarperCollins CSW) are trademarks of their respective owners. Wordmom is an independent reference utility for educational and entertainment purposes and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Hasbro, Mattel, Spear, Zynga, The New York Times Company, NASPA, WESPA, or HarperCollins Publishers. All game names are referenced strictly under nominative fair use to indicate compatibility.