Meaning & Definition of word "Sneak"

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    Sneak

    /sniːk/

    noun:

    • 1. a stealthy or surreptitious act.
      • Example: The kids planned a sneak to the candy store after school.

    verb:

    • 1. to move quietly and stealthily in order to avoid being noticed.
      • Example: He decided to sneak out of the house to avoid waking his parents.
    • 2. to do something secretly or discreetly.
      • Example: She tried to sneak a cookie from the jar without anyone seeing her.

    Etymology

    Middle English 'sneken', from Old English 'sniccan'; akin to Dutch 'sneken' to creep, sneak.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    sneak peek:

    A quick or secretive look at something before it is officially revealed.

    sneak away:

    To escape or leave quietly without being observed.

    sneak up on:

    To approach someone quietly and unexpectedly.

    Related Words

    sneaky:

    Characterized by stealth or deception.

    sneakiness:

    The quality of being secretive or deceitful.

    Slang Meanings of sneak

    Meaning: To deceive or trick someone.

    Example Sentence: He snuck them into the club without a cover charge.

    Meaning: To secretly take something without permission.

    Example Sentence: I snuck a smoke behind the building.