spying
UK: ˈspaɪ.ɪŋ | US: ˈspaɪ.ɪŋ
n. the act of secretly collecting information about a person, organization, or country, typically for political, military, or commercial purposes
vt. present participle of "spy" (to observe secretly)
The word "spying" derives from the verb "spy," which entered Middle English from Old French espier (to watch, observe), itself of Germanic origin (related to Old High German spehōn). The suffix "-ing" marks the present participle or gerund form, turning the action into a noun. The core idea of covert observation has remained consistent throughout its evolution.
Spying on competitors is illegal in most industries.
The novel revolves around a detective spying on a criminal syndicate.
She accused him of spying on her private conversations.
Spying requires both patience and discretion.
The government denied allegations of spying on foreign diplomats.