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.
Now, despite the economic benefits — considerable tax revenue, money for schools, numerous construction jobs and a smaller number of permanent jobs — no one seems to want a computing campus in their backyard, especially one shrouded in secrecy. — Andrea Hsu, NPR, 28 Oct. 2026 But such is the secrecy around the project that parts of the script are being held back from buyers in what is presumably a bid to avoid spoilers and increase intrigue. — Andreas Wiseman, Deadline, 27 Oct. 2026 Reality star Savannah Chrisley on Tuesday announced her pregnancy and engagement to her mystery fiancé, finally revealing that his name is Jason after months of secrecy. — Deborah Day, Los Angeles Times, 27 Oct. 2026 Alternatively, a wedding shrouded in complete secrecy has become a luxury in itself. — New York Times, 27 Oct. 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 Nov. 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
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