Synonyms

break cover

Idioms

Suddenly emerge from a hiding place, as in The shots distracted our pursuers long enough so that we could break cover and make a run for it. This term originally alluded to animals being hunted, a frequent usage in the 16th century. Now that hunting is a less common pursuit, it is used for human beings.

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.

After we saw this prototype 500Hz gaming monitor break cover in early 2022, I didn’t think that laptop manufacturers would be quick to bring a laptop that fast to market.

From The Verge • Jul. 19, 2022

He says the tanks had driven back to the road when Dudarenko decided to break cover.

From BBC • Mar. 24, 2022

Sanchez said he had at least two photographers collecting tips and following Messi and PSG for the first shots of the family when they finally break cover from their hotel.

From Reuters • Sep. 15, 2021

The younger Mr. Zubeidi said he had not heard from his brother since his escape, nor did he expect him to break cover by returning home.

From New York Times • Sep. 7, 2021

"He is waiting for companions, and watching to see which way we break cover."

From Jack Haydon's Quest by Jellicoe, John

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023