espionage

noun

ˈe-spē-ə-ˌnäzh How to pronounce espionage (audio)
Definition of espionagenext
as in spying
the secret gathering of information on others the acts of espionage on behalf of the Confederacy carried on by Belle Boyd and Rose Greenhow

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Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of espionage Plot summary Mick Herron began as a detective-fiction writer while working as a copy editor, turning to the espionage genre after the 2005 London bombings. — Encyclopedia Britannica, 17 Aug. 2026 Germany’s cabinet approved new rules for its spies Wednesday to lift World War II-era restrictions on offensive cyber operations, sabotage, and espionage. — Brendan Ruberry, semafor.com, 12 Aug. 2026 Rumors swirled among the Americans that the Turks were purposefully sabotaging machinery — or perhaps even engaged in some convoluted form of espionage. — Jesse Coburn, ProPublica, 12 Aug. 2026 In between the two installments, Waller-Bridge found time to helm the beloved first season of the smart-pulp espionage thriller Killing Eve. — Judy Berman, Time, 11 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for espionage
Recent Examples of Synonyms for espionage
spying
Noun
  • China’s foreign ministry in June confirmed the ‌arrest of Min Zin, saying he was suspected of spying and of endangering Chinese national security.
    — Reuters, NBC news, 20 Aug. 2026
  • Two of the analysts gave evidence, expressing remorse for their actions but saying they were pushed into going on the spying trips.
    — Jacob Tanswell, New York Times, 14 Aug. 2026
Definition of spying

Browse Nearby Words

espies
espionage
esplanade
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Cite this Entry

“Espionage.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/espionage. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on espionage

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about espionage

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