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Learn a Word Daily — Furtive
Today’s word is "Furtive": Secretive and sly.
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Word of the Day · January 6, 2026
Furtive
FUR-tiv · adjective
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Definition
Secretive and sly.
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Origin & Etymology
From Latin furtivus, from furtum meaning “theft.”
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Nuance
Furtive describes behavior meant to avoid attention—quick, sneaky, and a little guilty.
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Usage
“He took a furtive glance at his phone during the meeting.”
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Fun Fact
Because it’s tied to “theft,” furtive often implies not just secrecy, but a hint of wrongdoing.
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