secrecy

noun

se·​cre·​cy ˈsē-krə-sē 

plural secrecies

1

: the condition of being hidden or concealed

2

: the habit or practice of keeping secrets or maintaining privacy or concealment

Synonyms of secrecy

• secretiveness

Examples of secrecy in a Sentence

this administration's steadfast adherence to secrecy is beginning to cost it the trust of the voters

Recent Examples on the Web

Through themes of identity, secrecy, and self-worth, the novel highlights the emotional cost of assimilation. — Literary Hub, 26 June 2026

People of faith gathered in secrecy for services, and religion was outlawed. — Mark Temnycky, Forbes.com, 25 June 2026

The choice could be motivated by secrecy, as Nolan films are famous for keeping things close to the vest until release day. — Christian Zilko, IndieWire, 25 June 2026

That secrecy protects Albany, not the owner. — Mark Lewyn, New York Daily News, 25 June 2026

Word History

Etymology

alteration of earlier secretie, from Middle English secretee, from secret secret

First Known Use

1556, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing secrecy

• anti-secrecy
• swear (someone) to secrecy
• swear to secrecy

Kids Definition

secrecy

noun

se·​cre·​cy ˈsē-krə-sē 

plural secrecies

1

: the habit of keeping secrets : secretiveness

2

: the quality or state of being hidden or concealed