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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.

spy

/spaɪ/ /spaɪ/

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.

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