DictionaryAI

reveal

Sayri-VEEL/ɹɪˈvil/UK/ɹɪˈviːl/

Verbreveals, revealing, revealed

Noun pluralreveals

4 meanings of reveal

Practice

  1. 1
    uncoververbtransitive
    To show something that was hidden or kept secret.

    Like pulling back a curtain to show what is behind it.

    Please reveal the answer when everyone is ready.

    She slowly revealed the surprise behind her back.

    UsageSay reveal something to someone, or reveal that something is true.

    Similaruncover, unveil, expose

    Oppositeconceal, hide, cover

    Note
  2. 2
    surprise momentnouncolloquialcountable
    The moment in a story or show when something hidden is finally shown.

    Like opening a wrapped gift and seeing what is inside.

    The big reveal at the end of the movie surprised everyone.

    That reveal in the final episode left fans speechless.

    UsageOften the big reveal. In formal writing, say revelation.

    Similarrevelation

    Note
  3. 3
    from Godverbtransitive
    To make known something that could only be learned through God or another higher power.

    Like someone who alone knows a secret and chooses to share it.

    The prophet said God would reveal the truth to his people.

    Scripture teaches that visions revealed God's plan to the chosen few.

    Similardisclose, divulge, tell

Less common meaning

  1. 4
    noun
    The flat surface at the side of a window or door opening.

Practice

Can you tell the meanings of reveal apart? Answer 4 quick questions from this page, or write your own sentence and AI will check it.

Origin

It comes from Latin revelare, meaning "to uncover." This joined re- ("back") with velare ("to cover"), from velum ("veil, covering").

Checked 6 Nov 2026 · 3 facts