secretly

American  

[see-krit-lee] / ˈsi krɪt li /

adverb

1. in a way that is kept from the knowledge of others or is designed to escape their notice.

   He later discovered that the couple had secretly married in a discreet ceremony six months ago.

   Many of the wood and stone looks you see in homes every day are secretly vinyl flooring.

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Other Word Forms

• nonsecretly adverb
• quasi-secretly adverb
• semisecretly adverb
• ultrasecretly adverb
• unsecretly adverb

Etymology

Origin of secretly

secret ( def. ) + -ly

Example Sentences

I told him that he didn’t need to walk me home, that it wasn’t far and the path was well lit, but he insisted, and secretly, I was pleased.

From Literature

When George secretly attended a robot football game, his simulacrum told Jane he had to work late.

From The Wall Street Journal

Those secretly sending material to the foreign media know how risky it can be.

From BBC

She added: "I'll even miss standing front of the judges, can you believe that? Smiling politely while sometimes secretly disagreeing - it's been an honour to share the ballroom with them."

From BBC

His neighbor is secretly caring for three Jewish children.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• clandestinely
• covertly
• furtively
• personally
• privately
• quietly
• stealthily
• surreptitiously