espionage
|es/pi/o/nage|
C1
🇺🇸
/ˈɛspiəˌnɑːʒ/
🇬🇧
/ˈɛspiənɑːʒ/
spying activities
Etymology
Etymology Information
'espionage' originates from French, specifically the word 'espionnage,' where 'espion' meant 'spy.'
Historical Evolution
'espionnage' transformed into the English word 'espionage' during the 18th century.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'the act of spying,' and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
the practice of spying or using spies to obtain information about the plans and activities of a foreign government or competing company.
The government was accused of engaging in industrial espionage.
Synonyms
Last updated: 2025/01/17 02:13