Meaning of the Word
Espionage refers to the act of spying or using covert methods to obtain secret or confidential information, typically for political, military, or economic purposes.
Definitions and Meaning in English
- The practice of spying to gather information or intelligence, often related to national security.
- The act of engaging in secretive or undercover activities to monitor or gather confidential data.
- The collection of sensitive or classified information, usually carried out by government agents or organizations.
History and Origin
The word “espionage” comes from the French term espionnage, meaning “spying,” which itself is derived from espion, meaning “spy.” It entered the English language in the 19th century, especially in the context of international politics and military operations. Espionage became a common term during the era of the World Wars, as it became essential for governments to gather intelligence through secretive means.
Detailed Explanation
Espionage typically involves the use of spies or covert agents to collect information that is not meant to be publicly available. This can involve infiltrating organizations, governments, or enemy territories to obtain military secrets, technological data, or political intelligence. It is often associated with international relations and national security, but can also take place in corporate environments, where it is referred to as industrial espionage. Espionage is often illegal and can involve techniques like surveillance, wiretapping, hacking, and undercover operations.
Example Sentences
- The government arrested several individuals on charges of espionage for allegedly stealing state secrets.
- During the Cold War, espionage was a common tactic between the superpowers.
- The spy was caught trying to gather intelligence on military bases, charged with espionage.
- He was accused of espionage after being found with classified documents in his possession.
- Espionage plays a key role in modern intelligence operations, especially in times of conflict.
- The company took legal action against the rival firm for industrial espionage.
- The book explores the world of espionage during World War II, focusing on undercover agents.
- Technological espionage is increasingly common in the digital age, where hackers steal corporate secrets.
- The diplomat was recalled after being implicated in espionage activities abroad.
Synonyms with Short Explanation
- Spying – The act of secretly observing or gathering information.
- Intelligence gathering – The process of collecting and analyzing information, often for military or political purposes.
- Surveillance – Close observation, often used in espionage to monitor targets.
- Undercover work – Covert operations in which individuals work secretly to gather information.
- Reconnaissance – A military term referring to an exploration or survey, often done to gather intelligence.
Related Words with Short Explanation
- Spy – A person who secretly collects information, especially for a government or organization.
- Agent – An individual employed to carry out espionage or secretive tasks on behalf of an organization.
- Covert – Hidden or secret, often describing operations or actions in espionage.
- Hacking – Unauthorized access to systems or networks to gather sensitive information, often linked to espionage.
- Subversion – The act of undermining authority or institutions, which can be linked to espionage activities.
More Matches with Short Explanation
- Intrigue – Secretive or underhanded plots, often linked to espionage activities.
- Surreptitious – Done in a secret or unauthorized manner, often describing espionage actions.
- Deception – Misleading or tricking others, commonly used in espionage to gain information.
- Infiltration – The act of secretly entering an organization or group to gather information.
- Double agent – A spy who pretends to work for one side but secretly works for the opposing side.
Antonyms
- Transparency
- Openness
- Honesty
- Disclosure
- Publicity