surreptitiously
UK: ˌsʌrəpˈtɪʃəsli | US: ˌsɜːrəpˈtɪʃəsli
adv. in a secret, stealthy, or deceptive manner
adv. done by unauthorized or concealed means
The word "surreptitiously" traces back to Latin surrepticius, derived from surripere ("to steal secretly"), combining sub- (under) + rapere (to seize). The root rept- (as in "reptile") metaphorically evokes creeping or stealthy movement. Over time, the term evolved to describe actions performed covertly or without permission, retaining its connotation of secrecy.
He slipped surreptitiously out of the meeting to avoid attention.
The spy exchanged documents surreptitiously in the crowded café.
She glanced surreptitiously at her phone during the lecture.
The thief moved surreptitiously through the darkened hallway.
They communicated surreptitiously using coded messages.