uncover

verb

un·​cov·​er ən-ˈkə-vər 

uncovered; uncovering; uncovers

transitive verb

1

: to make known : bring to light : disclose, reveal

uncover the truth

2

: to expose to view by removing some covering

3

a

: to take the cover from

b

: to remove the hat from

uncovered his head

4

: to deprive of protection

intransitive verb

1

: to remove a cover or covering

2

: to take off the hat as a token of respect

Synonyms

• bare
• disclose
• discover
• divulge
• expose
• let on (about)
• reveal
• spill
• tell
• unbosom
• uncloak
• unmask
• unveil

Examples of uncover in a Sentence

Police uncovered a criminal plot.

Archaeologists uncovered the ruins of an ancient city.

Recent Examples on the Web

Connecting with industry peers on platforms like X or LinkedIn can uncover hidden opportunities. —Jack Kelly, Forbes, 1 Mar. 2025

However, deputies also uncovered an unexpected aquatic trove: 35 live abalone, a northwestern pond turtle, wet clothing and tools apparently used to pry abalone from rocks, authorities said in a statement. —Suhauna Hussain, Los Angeles Times, 1 Mar. 2025

Women who haven’t received rightful recognition for their contributions to American fashion at large are uncovered as well. —Robyn Mowatt, Essence, 28 Feb. 2025

Here, Hausmann-Stokes talks to Deadline about his upbringing, confronting personal demons, uncovering nuanced and engaging Veteran stories. —Destiny Jackson, Deadline, 28 Feb. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1

Rhymes for uncover

• discover
• hardcover
• recover
• thereover
• cover
• hover
• plover
• rediscover
• undercover

Kids Definition

uncover

verb

un·​cov·​er ˌən-ˈkəv-ər 

1

: to make known : disclose, reveal

uncover a plot

2

: to expose to view by removing some covering

uncover the ruins of an ancient city

3

a

: to take the cover from

uncover the box

b

: to remove the hat from

c

: to take off one's hat as a sign of respect