Furtive

Adjective

Definition: Attempting to avoid notice or attention, typically because of guilt or a belief that discovery would lead to trouble; secretive.

Synonyms: Secretive, Surreptitious, Stealthy

Antonyms: Open, Overt, Transparent

Examples:

The cat made a furtive movement towards the table.
The thief cast a furtive glance around before quickly grabbing the wallet.

Mnemonics:

Think of a cat sneaking around in a furtive manner, trying not to be noticed.

Etymology:

Origin:

Late Middle English from the Latin word 'furtivus', from 'furtum' meaning 'theft'.

Historical Usage:

The word has been used in English since the late 14th century with its current meaning related to sneaky or secretive behavior.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"In a furtive manner"

Explanation:

Doing something secretly or discreetly to avoid being noticed or caught.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusing 'furtive' with 'furtively' (adverb form).

Explanation:

'Furtive' is an adjective describing a person or action as secretive, while 'furtively' describes the manner in which something is done, indicating secrecy.