How Do You Spell COVERT?

Pronunciation: [kə͡ʊvˈɜːt] (IPA)

The spelling of the word "covert" /ˈkʌvərt/ can be explained by its etymology. The word comes from the Old French word "coverte" meaning "hidden, secret". The "v" in "coverte" was later replaced with "v" to reflect the pronunciation, which is a result of the Great Vowel Shift in English. The "o" is a result of the pronunciation change from the Middle English "u" sound to the modern English "oʊ". Therefore, the spelling of "covert" reflects its historical development and the changes in the English language over time.

COVERT Meaning and Definition

  1. Covert is an adjective that refers to something concealed, hidden, or not easily observed or understood. It is often associated with secret or clandestine activities.

    In a literal sense, it can describe a physical location or structure that is not immediately visible or noticeable. For example, a covert entrance or passage might be a concealed doorway or tunnel used for sneaking in or out of a building. Similarly, a covert operation refers to a secret mission or activity conducted by intelligence agencies or military forces.

    However, covert can also be used to describe actions or behaviors that are not openly expressed or acknowledged. It can refer to subtle or indirect ways of doing something, especially to achieve a desired outcome without attracting attention or causing suspicion. For instance, a covert strategy in business could involve making quiet maneuvers to gain a competitive advantage without alerting competitors.

    Additionally, the term can be used in a figurative sense to describe ideas or intentions that are not overtly proclaimed or evident. It suggests an underlying or hidden meaning, implying that something is being concealed or kept a secret. For example, a covert message might contain hidden symbolism or a double entendre that requires interpretation to understand its true intent.

    Overall, covert encompasses the notion of concealment, secrecy, and indirectness, whether it pertains to physical objects, actions, or ideas.

  2. • Concealed; private; secret; disguised; insidious; under protection.
    • A place which covers or shelters; a defence; a shady place; a thicket; a hiding-place.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Top Common Misspellings for COVERT *

* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.

Other Common Misspellings for COVERT

Etymology of COVERT

The word covert has its origins in the Latin language. It comes from the Latin word covertus, which means covered or concealed.

Idioms with the word COVERT

  • Covert The idiom "covert" does not exist. However, the word "covert" itself refers to something that is hidden, secret, or concealed.

Similar spelling words for COVERT

Plural form of COVERT is COVERTS

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