Pronunciation: [fˈɜːtɪv] (IPA) 
The spelling of the word "furtive" may be confusing for some. It is pronounced /ˈfɜː.tɪv/ with the stress on the first syllable. The "f" is pronounced as the letter "f" and the vowel in the first syllable is pronounced as "ur" as in "fur". The second syllable ends with the sound of "tiv" which is pronounced as "tiv" in "active" or "positive". The word means attempting to avoid attention or being secretive.
Furtive is an adjective that describes actions or behavior that is characterized by an attempt to avoid being noticed, often due to a sense of guilt or the desire to keep something secret. The term commonly refers to covert or stealthy actions carried out with an intention of concealment or illicitness.
When used to describe a person, it suggests someone who is secretive, sneaky, or surreptitious in their actions. It implies that they are trying to avoid detection or scrutiny, typically in order to carry out a hidden agenda or commit an act that may be frowned upon or forbidden. For example, a furtive glance or movement might indicate an individual's inclination to avoid attention or suspicion.
As an adjective, furtive can also be used to describe an atmosphere or a place that is secretive or elicits suspicion. It portrays an environment where activities are conducted cautiously, either due to illegality or the need for concealment. For instance, a furtive meeting spot may imply a clandestine gathering where hidden affairs take place.
Overall, furtive entails actions or behavior characterized by secrecy, slyness, or stealthiness in order to evade detection or maintain confidentiality. It implies a sense of sneaking or furtiveness, often associated with hidden motives or intentions.
Stolen, as furtive glances.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "furtive" traces its origins back to the Latin term "furtivus", derived from the verb "furari" meaning "to steal". In turn, "furtivus" is derived from the noun "fures", which translates to "thief". Over time, the word "furtive" evolved in English to describe actions or behaviors characterized by secrecy, stealth, or an attempt to avoid being noticed or recognized.
