furtive

/ˈfʌrdɪv/

/ˈfʌtɪv/

If you're looking for a formal adjective to describe something sly or secret, sneak in furtive. Let's hope the teacher doesn't see your furtive attempts to pass notes in class!

The adjective furtive is related to fūrtum, the Latin word for "theft or robbery." This is apparent as the expressions "to give someone a furtive glance" and "to steal a glance at someone" mean the same thing. If a person's manner is furtive, he or she is acting suspiciously. Secret, stealthy, and sly are all similar in meaning, but they lack this image of a thief's actions.

Definitions of furtive

1. adjective

   secret and sly
   “furtive behavior”

   synonyms: backstair, backstairs

   covert

   secret or hidden; not openly practiced or engaged in or shown or avowed
2. adjective

   marked by quiet and caution and secrecy; taking pains to avoid being observed
   “a furtive manner”

   synonyms: sneak, sneaky, stealthy, surreptitious

   concealed

   hidden on any grounds for any motive