Synonyms for spy

Synonyms for (noun) spy

Synonyms: spy, undercover agent

Definition: (military) a secret agent hired by a state to obtain information about its enemies or by a business to obtain industrial secrets from competitors

Similar words: operative, intelligence agent, intelligence officer, secret agent

Definition: a person secretly employed in espionage for a government


Synonyms: spy

Definition: a secret watcher; someone who secretly watches other people

Usage: my spies tell me that you had a good time last night

Similar words: spectator, looker, witness, watcher, viewer

Definition: a close observer; someone who looks at something (such as an exhibition of some kind)

Usage: the spectators applauded the performance; television viewers; sky watchers discovered a new star


Synonyms for (verb) spy

Synonyms: spy

Definition: secretly collect sensitive or classified information; engage in espionage

Usage: spy for the Russians

Similar words: inquire, enquire, investigate

Definition: conduct an inquiry or investigation of

Usage: The district attorney's office investigated reports of possible irregularities; inquire into the disappearance of the rich old lady


Synonyms: spy, stag, sleuth, snoop

Definition: watch, observe, or inquire secretly

Similar words: monitor, supervise

Definition: keep tabs on; keep an eye on; keep under surveillance

Usage: we are monitoring the air quality; the police monitor the suspect's moves


Synonyms: descry, spot, spy, espy

Definition: catch sight of

Similar words: sight, spy

Definition: catch sight of; to perceive with the eyes

Usage: he caught sight of the king's men coming over the ridge


Synonyms: sight, spy

Definition: catch sight of; to perceive with the eyes

Usage: he caught sight of the king's men coming over the ridge

Similar words: comprehend, perceive

Definition: to become aware of through the senses

Usage: I could perceive the ship coming over the horizon


Visual thesaurus for spy