covertly
Americanadverb
Etymology
Origin of covertly
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.
As a young trumpet player in Cuba’s national band, he sought refuge in the sounds of Charlie Parker and Dizzy Gillespie by tuning into Voice of America: a radio program covertly broadcast from the States.
From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 12, 2026
FC Slovacko for almost 15 years, was arrested in September 2023 after police discovered the covertly filmed footage online.
From BBC • May 19, 2026
The security law permitted China’s state security apparatus to operate openly in the city after years of doing so covertly.
From The Wall Street Journal • May 7, 2026
In 2023, covertly filmed footage emerged that appeared to show her accepting a luxury Dior handbag, in an episode that further eroded Yoon's already low approval ratings.
From Barron's • Apr. 28, 2026
And then I understand what Olivia is covertly suggesting.
From "The Bletchley Riddle" by Ruta Sepetys and Steve Sheinkin
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Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.