secrecy

noun

se·​cre·​cy ˈsē-krə-sē How to pronounce secrecy (audio)
plural secrecies
Synonyms of secrecynext
1
: the condition of being hidden or concealed
2
: the habit or practice of keeping secrets or maintaining privacy or concealment

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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Sudden declines in school performance, secrecy, irritability or new risk-taking behaviors may warrant closer attention. Katia Hetter, CNN Money, 15 May 2026 Concha argued that the situation highlights public distrust and government secrecy. Britta Miller, The Washington Examiner, 15 May 2026 The series explores fame, secrecy and emotional vulnerability as the pair navigate their careers and personal lives. Angelique Brenes, PEOPLE, 14 May 2026 Weiner compared it to other iconic wedding in history like Prince Charles and Lady Diana’s wedding, emphasizing the importance of capturing the romance and secrecy of the ceremony. Arushi Jacob, Variety, 13 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for secrecy

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of secrecy was in 1556

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Secrecy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/secrecy. Accessed 18 May. 2026.

Kids Definition

secrecy

noun
se·​cre·​cy ˈsē-krə-sē How to pronounce secrecy (audio)
plural secrecies
1
: the habit of keeping secrets : secretiveness
2
: the quality or state of being hidden or concealed

More from Merriam-Webster on secrecy

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster