in senses 1 & 2: ˈsēkrə̇d.iv, -ə̇tiv; sə̇ˈkrēd.]iv, sēˈ-, -ˈkrēt], ]ēv also ]əv; in sense 3: ̷ ̷ˈ ̷ ̷ ̷ ̷ adjective
Etymology: back-formation from secretiveness
1. : disposed to secrecy : given to concealment of one's activities or purposes : preferring privacy
the king was a secretive child, and showed little of his mind — Edith Sitwell
2. : indicating or betokening a disposition to secrecy
his blue eyes were guarded and secretive — Katherine A. Porter
3.
[ secret- + -ive ]
: secretory
Synonyms: see silent