stealthy

[ stel-thee ]

adjective

, stealth·i·er, stealth·i·est.

1. done, characterized, or acting by stealth; furtive:

   stealthy footsteps.

ˈstealthy

/ ˈstɛlθɪ /

adjective

1. characterized by great caution, secrecy, etc; furtive

Derived Forms

• ˈstealthiness, noun
• ˈstealthily, adverb

Other Words From

• stealth·i·ly [stel, -thi-lee], adverb
• stealth·i·ness noun
• un·stealth·i·ness noun
• un·stealth·y adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of stealthy¹

First recorded in 1595–1605; stealth + -y ¹

Example Sentences

The theme park industry is also stealthy, a world of heavily trained spokespeople and nondisclosure agreements.

From Los Angeles Times

But the vocal pro-Western opposition has denounced the legislation as a stealthy effort to convert Georgia into a pro-Russian state.

From New York Times

And in some cases, they suggest, it can be more efficient than stealthy stalking.

From Science Magazine

But it seemed to me she stole a stealthy look in my direction.

From Literature

Stealthy Louise lifted her tail to keep from knocking over anything as she made for the door.

From Literature

Related Words

• crafty