to sneak
Pronunciation
/ˈsnik/

Definition & Meaning of "sneak"in English

to sneak
01

to move quietly and stealthily, often with the intention of avoiding detection or being unnoticed

Intransitive: to sneak somewhere
to sneak definition and meaning
Grammatical Information
Composition
Simple
Movement verb
Regular
Present tense
sneak
3rd person singular
sneaks
Present participle
sneaking
Past simple
snuck
Past participle
snuck
Examples
The cat often sneaks into the neighbor's yard to explore.
02

to move or bring someone or something in a discreet, furtive, or stealthy manner

Transitive: to sneak sth somewhere
Examples
The spy had to sneak the confidential documents out of the heavily guarded facility.
03

to take something surreptitiously or without permission

Transitive: to sneak sth
Examples
The mischievous child decided to sneak a few extra cookies from the jar when no one was in the kitchen.
Sneak
01

someone who prowls or sneaks about; usually with unlawful intentions

sneak definition and meaning
02

a person underhanded, deceitful, or habitually sneaky

sneak definition and meaning
Informal
Offensive

What is the origin of the term "sneak" and how is it used?

"Sneak" is a slang term used to describe a person who is underhanded, deceitful, or habitually sneaky. It comes from the verb "to sneak," which has been in English since the 14th century, originally meaning to move quietly or furtively. Over time, the word was extended metaphorically to describe people who act dishonestly, betray trust, or operate in secret. The term is derogatory, used in informal, social, or moralizing contexts to criticize character, and conveys disapproval of deceitful behavior rather than physical traits.

Examples
That sneak stole my idea and took credit.
03

someone acting as an informer or decoy for the police

Grammatical Information
Animacy status
Human
Composition
Simple
Countable
Plural form
sneaks
01

marked by quiet and caution and secrecy; taking pains to avoid being observed

Grammatical Information
Composition
Simple
qualitative
Superlative
sneakiest
Comparative
sneakier
gradable
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