(military) a secret agent hired by a state to obtain information about its enemies or by a business to obtain industrial secrets from competitors

[ Syn: undercover agent ]

a secret watcher; someone who secretly watches other people; my spies tell me that you had a good time last night'

catch sight of

[ Syn: descry , spot , espy ]

watch, observe, or inquire secretly

[ Syn: stag , snoop , sleuth ]

catch sight of; to perceive with the eyes; he caught sight of the kings men coming over the ridge

[ Syn: sight ]

secretly collect sensitive or classified information; engage in espionage; spy for the Russians'