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V2 Vocabulary Building Dictionary


clandestine

adjective

Definition: planned or done in secret, especially describing activities that are not officially allowed

Synonyms: covert, furtive, stealthy, secret, underhand, illicit, surreptitious

Antonyms: open, candid, forthright

Tips: Clandestine is derived from the Latin word clandestinus, which came from clam, meaning “secretly.” Clandestine is a fun word to use to describe any secret activity, like planning a surprise party. It is also a great word to describe actual secret government activities and espionage. Clandestine is synonymous with furtive and surreptitious. See surreptitious for additional analysis.

Usage Examples:

The clandestine shredding of important documents would be the accounting firm’s downfall. (illicit, secret)

The justice department engages in clandestine activities designed to uncover illegal activity. (secret, stealthy)

We had several clandestine meetings to plan my wife's surprise birthday party. (covert, secret)

The clandestine operation was meant to uncover the thieves who had stolen millions from the company. (covert, stealthy)


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