Synonyms for

Clandestine

Verb / klæˈndestɪn / Another word for clandestine — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

done in secret or kept hidden, especially for an illegal or dishonest purpose

Synonyms & similar words

huggermugger holeandcorner hushhush undercover surreptitious cloakanddagger underground secret covert secret hidden undercover furtive surreptitious stealthy sneaky shady clandestine underground hush-hush cloaked veiled concealed masked disguised camouflaged private confidential

Synonyms by register

Formal

furtive covert surreptitious secretive

Informal

hush-hush on the sly under wraps

Literary

shadowy unseen

Antonyms

open public overt known legal official aboveboard

Common collocations

  • clandestine meeting
  • clandestine operation
  • clandestine activities
  • clandestine affair
  • clandestine purpose
  • clandestine network

Word family

noun clandestineness
adverb clandestinely

Usage note

Implies secrecy and often illegality or impropriety. It is typically used to describe actions or organizations that are hidden from view.

Example sentences

  1. The robbers planned a clandestine heist in the middle of the night.
  2. The secret agent had to conduct a clandestine operation to gather information.
  3. The lovers had a clandestine affair that they kept hidden from their families.
  4. The company had a clandestine meeting to discuss their illegal practices.
  5. The drug lord conducted his business in a clandestine location to avoid detection.

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