secret

²secret

noun

Definition of SECRET

1

a : something kept hidden or unexplained : mystery b : something kept from the knowledge of others or shared only confidentially with a few c : a method, formula, or process used in an art or operation and divulged only to those of one's own company or craft : trade secret d plural : the practices or knowledge making up the shared discipline or culture of an esoteric society

2

: a prayer traditionally said inaudibly by the celebrant just before the preface of the mass

3

: something taken to be a specific or key to a desired end <the secret of longevity>

— in secret

: in a private place or manner

Examples of SECRET

1. Don't tell him about the party—it's a secret.
2. I'm going to tell you a secret, but you have to promise not to tell anyone else.
3. You always look great. What's your secret?
4. She shared her beauty secrets with the group.
5. The secret to a good sauce is the base.
6. the secrets of the universe
7. one of nature's greatest secrets

First Known Use of SECRET

14th century

Related to SECRET

Synonyms: confidence

Related Words: dope, lowdown

Near Antonyms: open secret

see all synonyms and antonyms

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