secret

Definition

A piece of knowledge that is hidden and intended to be kept hidden.

Etymology

The noun is from Middle English secret, from Latin sēcrētum. Doublet of secretum. Displaced Old English dēagolnes (“a secret”). The verb is from the noun.

Example Sentences

• ""Can you keep a secret?" "Yes." "So can I.""
• "To tell our own secrets is generally folly, but that folly is without guilt; to communicate those with which we are intrusted is always treachery"
• "Well, mistress, I am sorry this is a matter I cannot aid you in—it goes against my conscience, and it is an affair above my condition, and beyond my management;—but I will keep your secret."