Idiom Breakdown

on the sly

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Definition

Slyly, in an inconspicuous manner, so as not to be seen; secretly; stealthily.

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In Context

"This diversion was enjoyed on the sly, and unknown to the ladies of the house."
"He was working for us on the sly at the Herald-Traveler-Record-American (before it shortened its topheavy name), then as now a reactionary, homophobic rag. Evidently he placed himself at some risk to help us, I learned later, because he was threatened with dismissal for his unauthorized use of the typesetter."

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Also Said As

clandestinely
furtively
on the down-low
on the quiet
on the Q.T.