Another Word For Spy

Meaning

The word "spy" refers to a person who secretly collects and reports information about the activities, plans, or intentions of a target, often for a government, military, or organization. Spies are typically involved in espionage, which is the practice of gaining secret information through covert methods.

Synonyms

• Investigator
• Intelligence agent
• Secret agent
• Informant
• Sleuth

Antonyms

• Open witness
• Publicity agent
• Advocate
• Defender

Etymology

The word "spy" originates from the Old French "espier," which means to "look at" or "watch." It traces back further to the Latin "specere," meaning "to see." The term has evolved over centuries to signify someone who observes in secret.

Examples

1. The government hired a spy to infiltrate the criminal organization.
2. She felt like a spy as she listened in on their conversation unnoticed.
3. During the Cold War, many spies worked tirelessly to gather intelligence on enemy nations.
4. Writing a novel about a spy requires understanding the complexities of undercover operations.