Spy - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
A spy is a person who secretly gathers and reports information about the activities, plans, or secrets of others, often for a government or organization. Spies typically work in secrecy to avoid detection.
Definition:
A person who secretly collects and reports information on others, especially for a government or organization.
Synonyms:
agent, informant, operative, undercover
Part of Speech:
noun, verb
Antonyms:
ally, friend
Common Collocations:
spy agency, spy mission, spy novel, spy camera
Derivatives:
spying, spied, spies
Usage Tips:
Use "spy" as a noun for a secret agent or as a verb meaning to observe secretly.
Common Phrases:
spy vs. spy, mole in the organization, cloak and dagger
Etymology:
From Old French "espier," meaning "to watch," ultimately of Germanic origin.
Examples:
- 1. The spy gathered intelligence for his country.
- 2. She was accused of trying to spy on her neighbors.
- 3. The novel features a daring spy during the Cold War.
- 4. Children love to play games where they pretend to be spies.