Synonyms for

Sneak

Verb / sni:k / Another word for sneak — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

to move in a quiet, careful way so as not to be seen or heard

Synonyms & similar words

creep prowler snitcher stoolpigeon fink canary stalker cabbage nobble lift sneaky filch mouse stoolie slip furtive pinch hook surreptitious snitch pussyfoot abstract purloin snarf stealthy creep slip tiptoe steal skulk prowl slink slink slinking sidle edge lurk skitter glide sashay pad foot

Synonyms by register

Formal

infiltrate intrude trespass

Informal

creep tiptoe slouch prowl

Literary

pilfer purloin

Antonyms

confront appear advance arrive show face bold

Common collocations

  • sneak out
  • sneak in
  • sneak around
  • sneak a look
  • sneak a bite
  • sneak past
  • sneak away

Word family

noun sneak
verb sneak
adjective sneaky

Usage note

The verb 'sneak' often implies moving stealthily to avoid detection or to do something secretively. 'Sneaky' as an adjective can sometimes carry a negative connotation of being sly or deceitful.

Example sentences

  1. I saw him sneak a piece of candy from the jar.
  2. She decided to sneak out of the house to meet her friends.
  3. He was able to sneak past the security guard.
  4. The cat tried to sneak up on the bird.
  5. He would always sneak a peek at his presents before Christmas.

Quotes

  • "If you want to know what a man's like, take a good look at how he treats his inferiors, not his equals." - J.K. Rowling
  • "To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment." - Ralph Waldo Emerson
  • "A person who never made a mistake never tried anything new." - Albert Einstein

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