conceal

/kənˈsiːl/

verb★Intermediate— to hide

◆ What It Really Means

to keep information, feelings, or objects hidden from view or knowledge

¶ Literal Meaning

to put something together and hide it

Literal Breakdown

con-together+cealto hide

◇ Mental Image

Picture a curtain being drawn tightly over an object, making it invisible.

◈ When to Use

During a surprise party, the organizer conceals the decorations behind a large sheet until the guest arrives.

◉ Cultural Note

The verb has a long literary tradition, appearing in classic English literature to describe secretive actions.

formal

to keep something secret or out of sight

The spy was trained to conceal his identity.

The spy learned how to keep his true identity hidden.

💡

Usually a transitive verb; often followed by the object being hidden.

Collocations

conceal evidenceto hide proof that might incriminate someoneconceal emotionsto hide one's feelingsconceal a weaponto keep a weapon out of view

Synonyms

hide cover mask

Antonyms

reveal expose

Related Phrases

conceal oneselfphrase

to hide one's presence

conceal a weaponphrase

to keep a weapon out of sight

💡Pro Tip

Formal vs. Informal

Use *conceal* in written or formal speech; in casual conversation, *hide* is more natural.

⚡Gold Rule

Transitivity

*Conceal* is normally transitive – you conceal something, not *conceal* by itself.

📖Word Origin

From Middle English *conceilen*, from Old French *conceillir*, from Latin *concelare* (prefix *con-* ‘together’ + *celare* ‘to hide’).

📝Usage Notes

Often used in formal or literary contexts; common collocations include *conceal the truth*, *conceal a fact*, *conceal oneself*. The verb is typically followed by a direct object.

Word Breakdown

con-

together, intensifying

prefix

ceal

to hide (from Latin *celare*)

root

English Dictionary