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

Synonyms of secrecy

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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.
For most people, the inside of the Salt Lake Temple has long been shrouded in secrecy, fueling both curiosity and criticism. — Brandon Griggs, CNN Money, 28 Aug. 2026 The limited testimony that led to the grand jury’s decision not to bring criminal charges reveals a larger culture of secrecy and corruption in Tallahassee, said José Javier Rodríguez, the Democrat running to unseat Uthmeier in November. — Claire Heddles, Miami Herald, 27 Aug. 2026 In Rapides Parish, the secrecy left residents with unanswered questions and distrust of their local leaders. — Drew Hawkins, NPR, 27 Aug. 2026 Speakeasies have always traded in the alluring mix of secrecy and discovery, tucked behind unmarked doors with low lighting and a knowing clientele. — Abby Montanez, Robb Report, 27 Aug. 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

Phrases Containing secrecy

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secours
secrecy
sec reg
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Cite this Entry

“Secrecy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/secrecy. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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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
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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