Rejtzködik

Rejtőzködik is a Hungarian intransitive verb meaning to conceal oneself or to withdraw from public life by avoiding detection. It describes the act of making one’s presence or location difficult to observe, either through physical hiding (for example, behind objects or in a secluded place) or by staying out of sight in a social or professional sense. The term is commonly used for individuals who deliberately avoid attention or scrutiny.

Etymology and form: The word is built from the root rejt, “to hide,” with a reflexive-type suffix -őzködik that conveys self-directed concealment. As a reflexive verb, rejtőzködik typically denotes that the subject hides himself or herself, rather than hiding something else.

Usage and nuance: Rejtőzködik is often used to describe purposeful anonymity or evasion. It can refer to physical concealment, as in a person hiding from others, or to a strategic withdrawal from public life, media attention, or investigation. It implies intentionality and a degree of self-protection or prudence. In narrative or journalistic contexts, it may characterize someone who avoids being found, questioned, or noticed.

Related terms: Elrejtőzik (to hide away, with emphasis on concealment from sight, sometimes without the reflexive nuance), elbújik (to hide, often temporarily or behind an object), and rejtőzés (concealment). Antonyms include kiderülés, nyilvánosságra kerülés (to come to light or to become public).

See also: Nyilvánosság, Rejtés, Elrejtőzés.