English Lexicon

Cover-story

/ˈkʌv.ərˌstɔːr.i/
nounCEFR C1 (Advanced)Top #8500 frequency
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Comprehensive Definitions & Senses

2 senses
As noun
  1. 1

    A fabricated account or explanation presented to conceal one's true activities, motives, or identity, especially in espionage.

    "The undercover agent maintained a detailed cover-story about working as an import-export businessman."
  2. 2

    The leading or principal article featured on the front page or cover of a magazine or periodical.

    "The investigative report on political corruption was featured as the magazine's cover-story this month."

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Antonyms & Contrasting Words (1)

Linguistic Origin & Historical Etymology

Derived from the noun 'cover' (from Old French 'covrir', ultimately from Latin 'cooperire') combined with 'story' (from Old French 'estorie'). Originally emerging in the mid-20th century within espionage and journalism contexts, it initially referred to a fabricated account used to conceal true motives or activities, later expanding in journalism to mean the main featured article of a magazine.

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