Meaning & Definition of word "Creeping"
to
Creeping
/ˈkripɪŋ/
verb:
- 1. To move slowly and carefully, often in a stealthy manner.
- Example: The cat was creeping along the fence, trying to avoid being seen.
- 2. To approach or advance gradually.
- Example: Fear was creeping into her mind as the deadline approached.
- 3. To grow or spread slowly over time.
- Example: The ivy was creeping up the walls of the old building.
adjective:
- 1. Characterized by a slow and gradual movement or progression.
- Example: There was a creeping sensation of unease in the room.
- 2. Causing discomfort or a sense of violation, often due to unwanted attention.
- Example: He felt a creeping dread as he realized someone was watching him.
Etymology
From the Old English 'crēopan', meaning to crawl or move slowly.
Common Phrases and Expressions
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.
Related Words
crawl:
To move on hands and knees.
sneak:
To move quietly and stealthily.
slither:
To glide or move smoothly and quietly.
Slang Meanings of creeping
Meaning: To stalk someone on social media.
Example Sentence: I caught him creeping on my Instagram posts.
Meaning: To feel uncomfortable or uneasy, often due to someone else's actions.
Example Sentence: That guy gives me the creeps; he's always creeping around.