WordGarden.iosecrecy
C1Pronunciation
UK
- /sˈiːkrəsˌi/
US
- /ˈsikrəsi/
Meanings
Noun
the practice or state of deliberately hiding information from other people
official or organizational concealment of actions, records, or plans from the public
Beyond the definition
Secrecy isn't just about keeping quiet; it's the practice of deliberately hiding something from others. Think of a secret garden—its beauty is enhanced by the secrecy surrounding it, making discovery all the more special. But secrecy can also be used for less pleasant purposes. A spy operates under a veil of secrecy to gather information, and a thief relies on secrecy to avoid getting caught. It's about control over information—who knows what, and when.
Imagine a group of friends planning a surprise party. The success of the party depends on everyone keeping it secret. Or consider a historical mystery—the secrecy surrounding events can fuel speculation for centuries. Secrecy isn't always negative; it can protect vulnerable things or build anticipation. However, too much secrecy can create distrust and suspicion.
Secrecy is the practice of intentionally concealing information from others, maintaining confidentiality, or keeping something hidden. It's a complex concept that touches on trust, power, and even morality. Think about ancient civilizations—many held sacred rituals shrouded in secrecy, believing it protected their beliefs and traditions. This kind of secrecy aims to preserve something valuable.
However, secrecy can also be used to obscure wrongdoing. A politician might engage in secret negotiations to avoid public scrutiny, or a company might operate under a cloak of secrecy to hide unethical practices. In these cases, secrecy is about control and manipulation.
The level of secrecy varies greatly. It could be as simple as keeping your birthday present a surprise, or as complex as national security protocols. We often talk about "breaking the secrecy around" something, meaning revealing hidden information. Authors frequently use secrecy as a plot device—think of detective novels where clues are concealed and revealed gradually to build suspense.
Secrecy also plays a role in personal relationships. A shared secret can strengthen bonds between people, but excessive secrecy can erode trust. The word often carries a weight of mystery or even danger: "a web of secrecy," "an atmosphere of secrecy." Ultimately, secrecy is about who has access to knowledge and the implications that follow. It's a powerful force that shapes our world in countless ways—from personal interactions to international affairs.
Examples
- 1
Private talks
The talks were carried out in complete secrecy.
- 2
Launch plans
She asked everyone involved to maintain strict secrecy until the launch.
- 3
Customer data
The company faced criticism for its secrecy over customer data.
- Patternsecrecy over + topic
hiding information about it
- 4
Government information
Years of government secrecy made many people distrust official statements.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Formal promise
Before joining the group, he had to swear an oath of secrecy.
- Phraseoath of secrecy
a formal promise not to tell anyone
- 6
Secret negotiation
The deal was negotiated under a veil of secrecy.
- Phraseunder a veil of secrecy
in a very secret way
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
Contrast
Used with (collocations)
- shrouded in secrecy
- maintain secrecy
- sworn to secrecy
Word family
Explore
- nondisclosure
- anonymity
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- secrecynoun