VocabDictionary

incognito

/ˌɪn.kɒɡˈniː.təʊ/intermediate Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.adjective

Having one's true identity concealed.

Example Sentences:
  • The famous actor traveled incognito to avoid being mobbed by fans.
  • She went incognito into the crowded market wearing a large hat and sunglasses.
2.adverb

In disguise or with one's identity concealed.

Example Sentences:
  • The detective operated incognito to gather information safely.
  • Even though he was a billionaire, he preferred to move about incognito.
3.noun

A person who is disguised or keeping their identity secret, or the state of concealing one's identity.

Example Sentences:
  • The prince preferred to maintain his incognito during his stay in Paris.
  • Several celebrities checked into the hotel under a strict incognito.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “incognito”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Derived from Italian, from Late Latin 'incognitus', from Latin 'in-' (not) + 'cognitus' (known, past participle of 'gnoscere' to know). The term originally referred to royalty or VIPs traveling under an assumed identity to avoid public attention.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of 'in-cognito' as 'in cognition'—you are hiding your identity so people cannot recognize you in their minds.

Frequently Asked Questions About “incognito

1. What is the meaning of “incognito” in English?

In English, incognito (adjective) is defined as: “Having one's true identity concealed.”.

2. How do you use “incognito” in a sentence?

The famous actor traveled incognito to avoid being mobbed by fans.

3. What are English synonyms of “incognito”?

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “incognito”?

Derived from Italian, from Late Latin 'incognitus', from Latin 'in-' (not) + 'cognitus' (known, past participle of 'gnoscere' to know). The term originally referred to royalty or VIPs traveling under an assumed identity to avoid public attention.