uncover

verb

un·​cov·​er ən-ˈkə-vər How to pronounce uncover (audio)
uncovered; uncovering; uncovers
Synonyms of uncovernext

transitive verb

1
: to make known : bring to light : disclose, reveal
uncover the truth
2
: to expose to view by removing some covering
3
a
: to take the cover from
b
: to remove the hat from
uncovered his head
4
: to deprive of protection

intransitive verb

1
: to remove a cover or covering
2
: to take off the hat as a token of respect

Synonyms of uncover

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Examples of uncover in a Sentence

Police uncovered a criminal plot. Archaeologists uncovered the ruins of an ancient city.
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.
And the evidence uncovered by Chair Loudermilk raises serious questions about Speaker Pelosi's role in those decisions. — Arkansas Online, 27 Oct. 2026 The public prosecutors didn’t even have the courtesy or humanity to respond to our inquiries and follow-up messages about a recent clue uncovered by a friend. — Léo Keler, The Dial, 27 Oct. 2026 Directed by Kei Oikawa and adapted from the popular manga by Nagano, the fantasy feature tracks the small protagonist and companions journeying to a scenic coastal island before uncovering a sinister local mystery. — Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 26 Oct. 2026 Increase heat to medium and simmer broth, uncovered, until orzo is just al dente, 8–10 minutes. — Rebecca Firkser, Bon Appetit Magazine, 26 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for uncover

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of uncover was in the 14th century

Rhymes for uncover

See All Rhymes for uncover

Browse Nearby Words

uncovenanted
uncover
uncovered
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Uncover.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/uncover. Accessed 28 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

uncover

verb
un·​cov·​er ˌən-ˈkəv-ər How to pronounce uncover (audio)
1
: to make known : disclose, reveal
uncover a plot
2
: to expose to view by removing some covering
uncover the ruins of an ancient city
3
a
: to take the cover from
uncover the box
b
: to remove the hat from
c
: to take off one's hat as a sign of respect
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