A2adjective1K

Secret

UK /["/ˈsiːkrət/"]/US /["/ˈsiːkrət/"]/

Definition

known about by only a few people; kept hidden from others

In simple words: Something that is kept hidden or not known by many people.

Examples

  • They have a secret plan to surprise her for her birthday.
  • He told me his secret, and I promised to keep it safe.
  • The secret to success is hard work and dedication.
  • She felt like she was part of a secret club when they let her in.
  • They shared many secret jokes that only they understood.

Usage notes

Use 'secret' in both casual and formal contexts to refer to something private or confidential. Avoid using it in formal documents where precision is needed.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of a 'secret agent' who keeps things hidden.

Collocations

  • be
  • remain
  • stay
  • highly
  • top
  • very
  • from
  • be
  • remain
  • stay
  • highly
  • top
  • very
  • from

Synonyms

  • mystery
  • confidentiality
  • hidden fact
  • private matter
  • unknown

Antonyms

  • revelation
  • openness
  • transparency

Common mistakes

  • Confusing 'secret' with 'sacred'; they have different meanings.
  • Using 'secret' in place of 'secretive' when describing a person's behavior.