Synonyms for
Spy
Definition
A person who secretly watches and gathers information about someone or something.
Synonyms & similar words
Synonyms by register
Informal
Antonyms
Common collocations
- spy on
- spy for
- spy network
- spy satellite
- spy plane
- spy thriller
- master spy
- double agent
Word family
Usage note
The word 'spy' often carries a negative connotation, implying deceit and betrayal. While 'agent' and 'operative' can be neutral, 'spy' is generally used for clandestine activities.
Example sentences
- The spy stole the secret plans.
- The detective is like a spy who works for the police.
- The operative was sent on a mission to spy on the enemy.
- The mole was revealed to be a spy for the other side.
- The informant provided valuable information to the spy agency.
Quotes
I am a spy in the house of me. I report back from the front lines of the battle that is me. I am somewhat nonplused by the event that is my life.
If you could be either God's worst enemy or nothing, which would you choose? We're halfway there, and it's a privilege to be God's spy... the only way to truly escape the mundane is for you to constantly be evolving.
A spy, like a writer, lives outside the mainstream population. He steals his experience through bribes and reconstructs it.