Creeping

/ˈkripɪŋ/

Meaning & Definition

verb

To move slowly and carefully, often in a stealthy manner.

The cat was creeping along the fence, trying to avoid being seen.

To approach or advance gradually.

Fear was creeping into her mind as the deadline approached.

To grow or spread slowly over time.

The ivy was creeping up the walls of the old building.

adjective

Characterized by a slow and gradual movement or progression.

There was a creeping sensation of unease in the room.

Causing discomfort or a sense of violation, often due to unwanted attention.

He felt a creeping dread as he realized someone was watching him.

From the Old English 'crēopan', meaning to crawl or move slowly.

creeping up on someone

To approach someone slowly and quietly, often to surprise them.

creeping death

A term used to describe something relentless and inevitable.

creeping thyme

A low-growing plant often used as ground cover.

crawl

To move on hands and knees.

sneak

To move quietly and stealthily.

slither

To glide or move smoothly and quietly.

To stalk someone on social media.

I caught him creeping on my Instagram posts.

To feel uncomfortable or uneasy, often due to someone else's actions.

That guy gives me the creeps; he's always creeping around.