Definition

1. Verb:
   • To reveal or disclose unintentionally or inadvertently: To make something known, typically a secret, feeling, or truth, without intending to do so. This is an archaic term largely synonymous with "betray" in this specific sense.

Usage

• The verb bewray is used to describe the act of accidentally exposing information through one's words, actions, or appearance. It is a transitive verb, requiring a direct object (what is revealed).
• Important Note: This word is archaic and is rarely used in modern English. It is primarily encountered in historical or literary texts. In contemporary language, "betray" is the standard word for this meaning.

Examples

• Verb:
  • His nervous glance did bewray his guilt to the observant detective.
  • She tried to seem calm, but her trembling hands bewrayed her fear.

Advanced Usage

• "to bewray oneself": To accidentally reveal one's own true nature, feelings, or intentions.
  • The spy bewrayed himself by using a phrase unique to his homeland.

Variants and Related Words

• Betray (verb): The modern, common synonym meaning to reveal treacherously or unintentionally.
• Disclose (verb): To make known, often more deliberately.
• Reveal (verb): To make previously unknown information known.

Synonyms

• Betray
• Expose
• Uncover
• Give away (phrasal verb, informal)

Antonyms

• Conceal
• Hide
• Cover up

Related Idioms and Phrases

• Bewray one's true colors: To unintentionally show one's real character or intentions. (A direct, archaic equivalent of the modern idiom "show one's true colors.")
  • His anger at the minor criticism bewrayed his true colors.

Verb

1. reveal unintentionally
   • Her smile betrayed her true feelings