A guilty secret

usgb
noun

Something that a person feels bad or embarrassed about and does not want others to know.

She had been keeping her relationship with him a guilty secret for months.
Visual representation of "a guilty secret" - Something that a person feels bad or embarrassed about and does not want others to know.

Often appears as...

  • keep a guilty secret
  • hide a guilty secret
Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "a guilty secret"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Negative Emotion

The phrase often indicates feelings of shame or remorse about the secret.

Illustration for Negative Emotion
His embezzlement became a guilty secret that haunted him.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Disclosure Fear

It suggests fear of negative consequences if the secret is revealed.

Illustration for Disclosure Fear
She couldn't face her family with the burden of her guilty secret.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Personal Conflict

The phrase could involve a personal moral conflict, indicating an inner struggle.

Illustration for Personal Conflict
The stolen money was a guilty secret, tearing him apart.
Visual representation of the word "A guilty secret"

Never forget "A guilty secret"

Humans forget easily. That's why you should download WordUp: Smart reminders, word games, AI practice, and much more!

Download on the App StoreGet it on Google PlayGet it from MicrosoftGet it on AppGallery
Chrome

WordUp Chrome Extension

As you browse the web instantly look up words you don’t know.

Get Chrome Extension
Back to top