spy Definition
- 1a person who secretly collects and reports information on the activities, movements, and plans of an enemy or competitor
- 2to observe or gather information secretly
Using spy: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "spy" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The spy was caught and imprisoned for espionage.
Example
He was sent to spy on the enemy's military base.
Example
She spied on her neighbor through the window.
Example
The company hired a private investigator to spy on their competitor.
spy Synonyms and Antonyms
Idioms Using spy
play spy
to pretend to be a spy, often in a game or role-playing scenario
Example
The children enjoyed playing spy, using toy binoculars and walkie-talkies to communicate with each other.
Example
The spy network was able to infiltrate the enemy's organization and gather valuable intelligence.
Example
He enjoys reading spy thrillers, especially those written by John le Carré.
Phrases with spy
Example
He suspected his partner was cheating on him, so he hired a detective to spy on her.
Example
The store owner installed a spy camera to catch shoplifters.
double agent
a spy who works for two opposing sides, often pretending to be loyal to one while actually working for the other
Example
The double agent was able to provide valuable information to both sides of the conflict.
Origins of spy
from Old English 'spion', meaning 'one who spies'
Summary: spy in Brief
A 'spy' [spaɪ] is a person who secretly collects and reports information on the activities, movements, and plans of an enemy or competitor. It can also mean to observe or gather information secretly. Examples include 'The company hired a private investigator to spy on their competitor.' and 'She spied on her neighbor through the window.' Phrases like 'spy on' and idioms like 'spy network' are common. 'Spy thriller' is a genre of fiction featuring espionage.
