sneak
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /sniːk/
KK: /snik/
adjective
Definition
Done in a secret or stealthy way, often to avoid being noticed or to catch someone off guard.
Example
The soldiers planned a sneak attack on the enemy camp.
Comparatives & Superlatives
Comparative: sneakier
Superlative: sneakiest
Conversation
Did you hear about that sneak attack during the game last night?
Yeah, it was totally unexpected!
I can't believe they pulled off such a sneak move like that.
Right? It really changed the whole outcome of the match.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
stealthy
furtive
sly
Antonyms
open
overt
blatant
intransitive verb
Definition
To move quietly and secretly, often to avoid being noticed.
Example
He tried to sneak out of the house without waking anyone.
Tense Forms
Past: sneaked
Past Participle: sneaked
Conversation
Did you see how he tried to sneak out of the party?
Yeah, I noticed! He thought no one would see him.
I mean, it was pretty obvious when he tried to sneak past everyone.
noun
Definition
A person who moves quietly and secretly, often to avoid being noticed or to do something sneaky.
Example
He was known as a sneak because he always tried to avoid getting caught.
Conversation
Did you hear about that sneak who stole the snacks from the kitchen?
Yeah, I can't believe someone would be that low!
I wonder who it could be; it must take a real sneak to pull that off.
Root Explanation
The word 'sneak' originates from Middle English 'sneken', which is derived from the Old English 'snecan', meaning to creep or move stealthily. It describes the action of moving quietly and secretly, often to avoid detection.
Memory Tip
Imagine someone 'creeping' quietly to avoid being seen — that's what 'sneak' means.
Visually Confused Words
seak
usnea
steak
speak
snoek
sneck
snark
snaky