Syn. -- Hidden, Secret, Covert. Hidden may denote either known to on one; as, a hidden disease; or intentionally concealed; as, a hidden purpose of revenge. Secret denotes that the thing is known only to the party or parties concerned; as, a secret conspiracy. Covert literally denotes what is not open or avowed; as, a covert plan; but is often applied to what we mean shall be understood, without openly expressing it; as, a covert allusion. Secret is opposed to known, and hidden to revealed.
Bring to light the hidden things of darkness.1 Cor. iv. 5.
My heart, which by a secret harmonyMilton.
Still moves with thine, joined in connection sweet.
By what best way,Milton.
Whether of open war, or covert guile,
We now debate.