Furtive - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Furtive means secretive or sneaky, often suggesting an attempt to avoid being noticed. It describes actions done quietly or stealthily, usually because they are dishonest or improper.
Definition:
Attempting to avoid notice, often suggesting guilt or secrecy.
Synonyms:
secretive, sneaky, covert, stealthy
Part of Speech:
adjective
Antonyms:
open, overt
Common Collocations:
furtive glance, furtive behavior, furtive movement
Derivatives:
furtively, furtiveness
Usage Tips:
Use "furtive" to describe actions done secretly to avoid attention or suspicion.
Common Phrases:
furtive look, furtive whisper, furtive meeting
Etymology:
From Latin *furtivus* ("stolen"), derived from *furtum* ("theft").
Examples:
- 1. She cast a furtive glance at the door before slipping out.
- 2. His furtive movements made the teacher suspicious.
- 3. The spy exchanged a furtive signal with his contact.
- 4. She took a furtive sip of water during the exam.