WordGarden.iounveil
C1Pronunciation
UK
- /ʌnvˈeɪl/
US
- /ənˈveɪl/
Meanings
Verb
to reveal or present something publicly for the first time
to remove a veil or covering so something can be seen
Beyond the definition
Imagine a sculptor lifting a cloth from a new statue so everyone can see it for the first time. That is the heart of this word: bringing something hidden or private into view. It is often used when a person, group, or company presents something important, such as a new plan, product, design, or discovery. It can also be used for truths or feelings that were kept back before. The word often carries a sense of timing, attention, and a moment of reveal.
To unveil something means to reveal it for the first time, often after it has been carefully hidden or kept secret. It suggests a deliberate act of making something known, frequently accompanied by a sense of ceremony or importance. The word originates from the literal practice of removing a veil—a piece of fabric used to conceal an object or a person's face.
In practice, you might unveil a statue at a public event, unveil a new policy to employees, or even unveil your true feelings to someone you trust. It is not just about sharing information; it is about presenting something in its full glory or clarity. For example: "The detective hoped to unveil the truth behind the mysterious disappearance."
While often used for tangible things like monuments or high-tech gadgets, unveil applies equally well to abstract concepts. A writer might unveil a complex theme within their novel, or a scientist might unveil groundbreaking research findings to the public. The defining characteristic is that something previously obscured is now brought into the light. Whether it is a grand reveal or a quiet disclosure, to unveil is to bring something forth from obscurity and present it to the world—or at least, to those who are meant to see it.
Examples
- 1
Public monument
The mayor unveiled a statue in the town square.
- 2
Product launch
The company will unveil its new electric car next month.
- 3
Technology demo
At the conference, the team unveiled a tool that can translate speech in real time.
- 4
Government plans
The government unveiled plans for cheaper public transport.
- Patternunveil plans for + something
announce plans for it publicly
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Report findings
The report unveils how much money was wasted on the project.
See also
Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- unveilverb
Forms
- unveiledpast tenseverb
- unveiling-ing formverb
- unveilsverb