deep-laid

[ deep-leyd ]

/ ˈdipˈleɪd /

carefully, cunningly, or secretly made: a deep-laid plot.

Origin of deep-laid

First recorded in 1760–70

The sinister hunchback at once understood that this was a deep-laid plot into which he had fallen.

The Works of Honor de Balzac |Honor de Balzac
At first she suspected that the stratagems which had won her heart were the results of a deep-laid plot proceeding from her lover.

Vikram and the Vampire |Richard F. Burton
Did he think his mamma would not find out the deep-laid plot, which had cost him so much labor?

Little Grandfather |Sophie May
His deceptions are more subtle and deep-laid than those of the Grecian adept.

The Continental Monthly, Vol. 2, No. 2, August, 1862 |Various

Part of a deep-laid plot to make me ridiculous, Mr. Speaker, Sir!'

A Diversity of Creatures |Rudyard Kipling

deep-laid

(of a plot or plan) carefully worked out and kept secret