Word: covert (adjective)

Associations

The word "covert" means something that is hidden, secret, or not openly shown. It is often used to describe actions, operations, or feelings that are done in a way to avoid being noticed.

• Military example: "They carried out a covert mission to gather intelligence." This means the mission was secret.
• Personal example: "He had a covert admiration for her, but never told anyone." This means he admired her secretly.
• Everyday example: "The company made a covert attempt to change the policy without public announcement." This means the attempt was done quietly and secretly.

A similar word is "secret." The difference is that "covert" often implies something done with careful hiding or disguise, sometimes for strategic reasons, while "secret" is more general and can mean anything kept unknown.

Substitution

You can replace "covert" with:

• secret (more general)
• hidden (focus on not being seen)
• undercover (often used for people working secretly)
• stealthy (focus on quiet and careful action)

Each substitution changes the tone slightly. For example, "undercover" is often used for spies or police, while "covert" can be broader.

Deconstruction

"Covert" comes from Latin "cooperire," meaning "to cover completely."

• "co-" means "together" or "completely"
• "vert" comes from "vertere," meaning "to turn" or "to cover" So "covert" literally means "covered completely," which fits its meaning of hidden or secret.

Inquiry

• Can you think of a time when you had to keep something covert or secret? What was it?
• How would you describe a covert operation in a movie you have seen?
• Why do you think some actions need to be covert instead of open?