Definitions

1. adjective

Feeling of relief or comfort that comes from revealing a secret or sharing a painful truth.

“The patient felt a mix of relief and guilt when she finally confessed her secret illness to her family, a feeling known as the ‘cathartic’ release, which was also described as being heimlich.”

2. adverb

In a secret, hidden, or private way.

“He walked heimlich into the meeting room, hoping to avoid drawing attention to himself.”