C1verb2K

Creep

UK /["/kriːp/","/kriːps/","/krept/","/ˈkriːpɪŋ/"]/US /["/kriːp/","/kriːps/","/krept/","/ˈkriːpɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to move slowly, quietly and carefully, because you do not want to be seen or heard

In simple words: To move slowly and quietly, often in a sneaky way.

Examples

  • The cat began to creep silently across the room, trying not to wake anyone.
  • During the play, the actor had to creep slowly behind the curtains to surprise the audience.
  • She felt a strange creep when walking alone at night through the park.
  • I don’t like that guy; he’s such a creep and makes me uncomfortable.
  • The plant’s roots creep underground and can spread several meters.
  • A cold sweat began to creep over him as he entered the dark basement.
  • The security guard warned us about a creep lurking near the entrance last night.

Usage notes

Use 'creep' when describing slow, sneaky movement. It can have a negative connotation when referring to someone who behaves inappropriately. Avoid in formal contexts.

Grammar pattern

creep + adverb

Memory hint

Think of a thief trying to creep into a house without making noise.

Collocations

  • quietly
  • silently
  • slowly
  • along
  • down
  • into
  • quietly
  • silently
  • slowly
  • along
  • down
  • into

Synonyms

  • crawl

Antonyms

  • rush
  • hurry
  • sprint

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'crawl'—crawling is slower and usually lower to the ground.
  • Using 'creep' to denote speed rather than the manner of movement.
  • Misunderstanding its slang use related to people behaving in a creepy way.