Subterfuge

/ˈsʌbtərfjuːdʒ/ noun

Definition

Sneaky or dishonest behavior used to hide something or escape from a difficult situation.

Etymology

From Latin 'subterfugere,' combining 'subterfugere' (to escape secretly) with 'sub-' (under) and 'fugere' (to flee). It literally means escaping under cover.

Kelly Says

The word beautifully contains its own meaning in the etymology—'sub-' means under and 'fugere' means flee—so just saying the word is like whispering about sneaking away in the dark!

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.