Spy out Definition 1 of 2Pro Tip 1/3Stealth Required Using 'spy out' implies stealth, suggesting actions are done covertly without being noticed. She would spy out the meeting from a distance. Pro Tip 2/3Information Gathering 'Spy out' often connotes a deliberate activity aimed at gathering specific information. The detective decided to spy out the criminal's routine. Pro Tip 3/3Military Context The phrase is commonly used in military or espionage contexts. They needed to spy out the fortifications before the assault.