hidden
When used as an adjective, "hidden" describes something that cannot be seen or known. It is often used to create a sense of mystery or surprise. As a verb form (the past participle), it follows the verb "hide." Remember that in English, we use "hidden" after helping verbs like "have," "has," or "had" (e.g., "I have hidden the gift").
💬Casual Conversation
🎬Tuesday afternoon; Jessica is in a high-stakes board meeting while Mr. Sterling is at a wellness retreat.
Mr. Sterling
The true essence of leadership is a hidden gem, Jessica. Find it.
Jessica
Sir, we are literally drowning in this audit. Please just sign the PDF.
💡
The dialogue highlights the clash between Mr. Sterling's eccentric, metaphorical communication style and Jessica's high-stress, pragmatic urgency. The phrase 'drowning in' is used as an idiom to express being overwhelmed by work.
Meanings
verb (past participle)
Past participle of hide; placed in a location where it cannot be seen.
"He had hidden the keys before leaving the house."