What does veiledly mean?
Veiledly means in a concealed, indirect, or carefully disguised manner. It is especially used for criticism, disapproval, or pointed remarks that are communicated without being stated openly or named explicitly. The adverb has a formal, literary tone and is more deliberate than simply saying that someone spoke indirectly. For example, a journalist might say that a politician veiledly criticized a rival's policies, meaning that the criticism was clear to informed readers but not directly expressed. Veiledly can also describe hints, allusions, and gestures that communicate a message without fully revealing it. Its usefulness lies in capturing the particular social and rhetorical character of saying something while preserving deniability or avoiding an outright confrontation.
adverbIn a veiled or indirect manner; covertly or without openly acknowledging what is meant.
- In an indirect or concealed manner, especially when expressing criticism, disapproval, or criticism without openly stating it.
"She veiledly criticized the proposal without naming its author."
"She veiledly criticized the proposal without naming its author."
"His remarks were veiledly aimed at the director's recent decision."
Veiledly is the art of saying something without quite saying it.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of veiledly
Veiledly is formed in English from “veiled” and the adverbial suffix “-ly.” The word “veiled” comes from “veil,” which entered English through Anglo-French and ultimately derives from Latin “velum,” meaning a covering or curtain. “Unveil” and “veiling” share this root, reflecting the related ideas of covering, concealment, and revealing.
How veiledly is actually used
Formal and literary. The word conveys deliberate indirectness or concealment, often suggesting that criticism or criticism is being communicated without being stated directly.
Easily confused with veiledly
“Veiledly” is an adverb describing an indirect or concealed manner, whereas “veiled” is usually an adjective describing something covered, hidden, or only partly disclosed.