veiled

Veiled is an adjective describing something that is covered by a veil or otherwise obscured from view. Literally, it can denote garments such as veils worn over the head or face, common in weddings, religious dress, or ceremonial contexts. Figuratively, it refers to information, language, or intentions that are not stated openly.

The term is formed as the past participle of the verb veil, which comes from Old French voile and ultimately from Latin velum, meaning a covering or sail. In English, the noun veil and the adjective veiled are often used in combination with other words to indicate indirectness, such as veiled threats, veiled criticism, or veiled references.

In cultural usage, veiling has various meanings: in some religious traditions, a veil is part of attire symbolizing modesty or separation; in weddings, a bride’s veil is a symbolic accessory; in literature and media, veiled language conveys nuance or euphemism. The concept also appears in fashion, photography, and architecture to describe surfaces, garments, or designs that are partly hidden, softened, or concealed.

See also: Veil, veiling, concealment.