Top 30 Slang For Secret – Meaning & Usage

Keeping a secret can sometimes feel like being in a secret club with its own language. Curious about the latest slang for keeping things hush-hush? Look no further! Our team has scoured the depths of the internet to bring you a list of the most trendy and intriguing slang for secrets. Get ready to up your secret-keeping game and stay in the loop with the coolest lingo out there.

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1. Hush-hush

This term is used to describe something that is meant to be kept quiet or not shared with others. It implies a need for discretion or secrecy.

For example, “The details of the new project are hush-hush for now.”
A person might say, “Keep it hush-hush, but I heard they’re planning a surprise party.”
In a conversation about a confidential document, someone might say, “This information is strictly hush-hush, so be careful who you share it with.”

2. Under wraps

This phrase means that something is being kept concealed or hidden from public knowledge. It suggests that the information or item is not yet ready or authorized to be revealed.

For instance, “The new product is still under wraps, but we’re excited to unveil it soon.”
A person might say, “I can’t tell you what it is yet, it’s still under wraps.”
In a discussion about a surprise event, someone might say, “We’re keeping the details under wraps to maintain the element of surprise.”

3. Classified

This term is often used to describe information or documents that are considered sensitive and not meant for public knowledge. It implies that access to the information is limited to a select group of individuals.

For example, “The classified files contain top-secret information about national security.”
A person might say, “I can’t discuss that, it’s classified.”
In a conversation about government documents, someone might ask, “Are those documents classified?”

4. Behind closed doors

This phrase suggests that something is happening in private or away from public scrutiny. It implies that there is a need for privacy or secrecy.

For instance, “The negotiations took place behind closed doors.”
A person might say, “I can’t discuss what happened, it all took place behind closed doors.”
In a discussion about a confidential meeting, someone might ask, “What really goes on behind closed doors?”

5. Between you and me

This phrase is used to indicate that the information being shared should be kept strictly confidential between the speaker and the listener. It implies a sense of trust and discretion.

For example, “Between you and me, I heard they’re planning to resign.”
A person might say, “I’ll tell you, but it’s strictly between you and me.”
In a conversation about a personal matter, someone might say, “This stays between you and me, okay?”

6. Off the record

This phrase is used to indicate that the information being shared is not intended for publication or attribution. It is often used in journalism and interviews.

For example, a journalist might say, “Can we go off the record for a moment?”
In a conversation between two people, one might say, “This is off the record, but I heard some interesting news.”
A source might request, “I’ll tell you, but it has to be off the record.”

7. Eyes only

This term is used to indicate that a piece of information or document is restricted and can only be accessed or viewed by a specific audience or individual.

For instance, a document might be labeled “Eyes only” to indicate that only a certain group of people can read it.
In a confidential email, the sender might write, “For your eyes only, please do not share this information.”
A military officer might say, “This briefing is classified as ‘eyes only’ for top-level personnel.”

8. On the down low

This phrase is used to indicate that something is being kept a secret or is not widely known. It suggests that the information should be kept confidential or not openly discussed.

For example, someone might say, “Let’s keep this on the down low for now.”
When discussing a surprise party, a person might say, “We need to plan everything on the down low so the birthday person doesn’t find out.”
In a conversation about a secret relationship, someone might say, “They’ve been seeing each other on the down low.”

9. Top secret

This term is used to indicate that information, documents, or activities are classified as the highest level of secrecy. It is often associated with government or military operations.

For instance, a document might be labeled “Top Secret” to indicate that it is highly classified and restricted.
In a spy movie, a character might say, “This mission is top secret. Only a few individuals are cleared to know the details.”
A government official might say, “We cannot disclose that information. It’s classified as top secret.”

10. Behind the scenes

This phrase is used to describe the hidden or secret activities that occur behind the scenes, away from public view. It refers to the behind-the-scenes work or processes that contribute to a final outcome or result.

For example, a documentary might show the behind-the-scenes footage of a movie production.
When discussing a concert, someone might say, “There’s so much that happens behind the scenes to make the show a success.”
In a business context, someone might say, “Let’s take a look behind the scenes to understand how this company operates.”

11. Strictly confidential

This term is used to describe information that is meant to be kept secret and not shared with anyone else. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining confidentiality.

For example, a lawyer might say, “The details of this case are strictly confidential and should not be discussed with anyone outside of the legal team.”
In a business setting, a manager might remind employees, “The upcoming product launch is strictly confidential. Do not disclose any information to competitors.”
A friend might ask, “Can you keep this strictly confidential? I need to share something personal.”

12. Covert

This term refers to something that is done in a concealed or secretive manner, often for the purpose of espionage or undercover activities.

For instance, a spy might be described as “engaging in covert operations to gather intelligence.”
In a discussion about government activities, someone might say, “Covert operations are often used to gather information without alerting the target.”
A journalist might investigate, “Are there any covert activities happening within the organization?”

13. Behind the curtain

This phrase is used to describe something that is happening or being done in secret, away from public knowledge or scrutiny.

For example, a company might be conducting “behind the curtain” negotiations for a potential merger.
In a theater production, the phrase might be used to describe the backstage area where actors prepare for their performances.
A friend might say, “Let me show you what’s happening behind the curtain. It’s something you won’t believe.”

14. In the vault

This phrase is used to describe information or objects that are kept in a highly secure and protected location, typically for the purpose of maintaining their confidentiality.

For instance, a company might keep sensitive financial documents “in the vault” to prevent unauthorized access.
In a discussion about personal secrets, someone might say, “I keep my deepest secrets locked away in the vault of my mind.”
A person might say, “I trust you with this information. It’s in the vault and won’t be shared with anyone else.”

15. On the QT

This phrase is used to describe something that is done in a secretive or confidential manner, often to avoid attracting attention or causing suspicion.

For example, a group of friends might plan a surprise party “on the QT” to keep it a secret from the guest of honor.
In a discussion about a confidential business deal, someone might say, “We need to handle this on the QT to avoid any leaks.”
A person might say, “I heard some interesting gossip on the QT. Do you want to know the details?”

16. Eyes peeled

This phrase means to be vigilant and attentive, especially in order to spot something or someone that may be hidden or hard to see.

For example, a detective might say, “Keep your eyes peeled for any suspicious activity in the area.”
When searching for a lost item, someone might advise, “Keep your eyes peeled, it could be anywhere.”
In a game of hide and seek, a player might say, “I’m hiding, so keep your eyes peeled and try to find me!”

17. Confidential

This term is used to describe information that is meant to be shared only with a select few and not to be disclosed or discussed with others.

For instance, a doctor might say to a patient, “Your medical records are confidential and will not be shared without your permission.”
In a workplace, an employee might sign a confidentiality agreement to ensure that sensitive company information remains confidential.
When discussing a personal matter, someone might say, “This conversation is confidential, so please keep it between us.”

18. Stealthy

This word describes actions or behavior that is done in a secretive or discreet manner, often to avoid being noticed or detected.

For example, a spy might move stealthily in order to gather information without being seen or heard.
When trying to surprise someone, a person might say, “I’ll be stealthy and sneak up behind them.”
In a video game, a character with stealth abilities might be able to move silently and remain hidden from enemies.

19. Hush money

This term refers to a sum of money that is paid to someone in order to ensure their silence or to prevent them from disclosing certain information.

For instance, in a legal settlement, one party might agree to pay hush money to the other party to avoid a public scandal.
In a blackmail situation, the person being blackmailed might offer hush money to keep their secret from being exposed.
When discussing a bribery case, someone might say, “The politician was caught accepting hush money to protect a corrupt business.”

20. Insider

This term refers to a person who is part of a particular group or organization and has access to privileged or classified information that is not available to the general public.

For example, in the stock market, an insider might have information about a company’s upcoming announcement that can affect its stock price.
In the world of journalism, an insider might provide exclusive information to a reporter about a particular event or situation.
When discussing a political scandal, someone might say, “An insider leaked classified documents that exposed the corruption within the government.”

21. Clandestine

Refers to something that is done secretly or in a concealed manner. It implies an element of stealth or hidden activity.

For example, “They had a clandestine meeting in the abandoned warehouse.”
A spy movie might feature a character saying, “Our mission is to gather information through clandestine operations.”
In a political context, someone might discuss, “The clandestine efforts to influence the election.”

22. Off-limits

Indicates that something is not allowed or forbidden. It suggests that access or involvement is restricted or denied.

For instance, “That topic is off-limits for discussion.”
A person might say, “The CEO’s office is off-limits to employees.”
In a game, a player might declare, “That move is off-limits according to the rules.”

23. Sub rosa

Derived from Latin, it means “under the rose.” It refers to something being done in secret or with a high level of confidentiality.

For example, “They made a sub rosa agreement to keep the information private.”
In a business context, someone might say, “Let’s discuss this sub rosa to avoid any leaks.”
In a political setting, a person might mention, “The sub rosa negotiations led to a breakthrough in the peace talks.”

24. Hidden agenda

Describes a secret plan or motive that is not openly disclosed. It suggests that someone has an additional, often hidden, purpose or intention.

For instance, “She seems nice, but I suspect she has a hidden agenda.”
A person might say, “The company’s decision to restructure seems to have a hidden agenda.”
In a political context, someone might argue, “The politician is pushing for this policy with a hidden agenda.”

25. In the know

Refers to being knowledgeable or aware of secret or exclusive information. It implies being part of an inner circle or having access to privileged knowledge.

For example, “She’s in the know about all the latest gossip.”
A person might say, “If you want to find the best restaurants, ask someone in the know.”
In a professional setting, someone might mention, “Being in the know about industry trends is crucial for success.”

26. Behind the mask

This phrase refers to someone hiding their true identity or intentions. It implies that there is something hidden or secret about the person or situation.

For example, in a spy movie, a character might say, “The villain is operating behind the mask of a respected businessman.”
In a discussion about someone’s motives, one might say, “I think there’s more to him than what he shows. He’s always behind the mask.”
A person describing a covert operation might say, “Our team works behind the mask to gather intelligence and protect national security.”

27. In the shadows

This phrase describes someone or something that is concealed or not easily seen. It implies secrecy or a desire to stay out of the spotlight.

For instance, a detective might say, “The criminal has been operating in the shadows, leaving no trace.”
In a conversation about a mysterious figure, one might say, “He’s always lurking in the shadows, never fully revealing himself.”
A person discussing a hidden agenda might say, “There are powerful forces at work, manipulating events from the shadows.”

28. In the dark

This phrase refers to someone who is not knowledgeable or kept unaware of certain information or secrets.

For example, in a conversation about a surprise party, one might say, “Let’s keep her in the dark until the big day.”
In a discussion about a classified project, a person might say, “Most of the employees are kept in the dark about the true nature of the research.”
A person describing a secretive organization might say, “Only a select few are allowed access to the organization’s inner workings. The rest are kept in the dark.”

29. In the loop

This phrase describes someone who is included or informed about a particular situation or secret. It implies being part of a select group or having insider knowledge.

For instance, in a workplace setting, a person might say, “I need to be in the loop regarding any changes in the project.”
In a conversation about a group of friends planning a surprise, one might say, “Make sure everyone is in the loop to avoid any accidental spoilers.”
A person discussing a confidential business deal might say, “Only those in the loop are aware of the details and potential outcomes.”

30. In the inner circle

This phrase refers to a select group of people who have access to privileged information or are involved in important decision-making. It implies a high level of trust and exclusivity.

For example, in a political context, a person might say, “Only those in the inner circle have direct access to the president.”
In a conversation about a secretive organization, one might say, “The inner circle holds the real power and controls the organization’s actions.”
A person describing a close-knit group of friends might say, “We trust each other completely. We’re all in the inner circle.”