spy
|spy|
B2
/spaɪ/
secret observation
Etymology
Etymology Information
'spy' originates from Old French, specifically the word 'espier,' where 'es-' meant 'out' and 'pier' meant 'to look.'
Historical Evolution
'espier' transformed into the Middle English word 'spien,' and eventually became the modern English word 'spy.'
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'to look out or watch,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to secretly observe or gather information.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a person who secretly collects and reports information about the activities, movements, and plans of an enemy or competitor.
The spy was caught trying to steal classified documents.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:40