Definitions

1. noun

the activity of collecting, using, and providing information about individuals or organizations in secret, especially by a government or other organization

“The government accused the foreign agent of espionage and espionage-related crimes.”

2. noun

the use of spies or spying in order to obtain information

“The company’s espionage activities were exposed by a whistleblower.”

3. noun

the state of being involved in spying or espionage

“The spy was in a state of espionage for several years before being caught.”

4. verb

to secretly gather information about someone or something

“The government is accused of spying on its citizens, but the official denies espionage.”