Meaning & Definition of word "Sneak"

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.