Creep

Definition

Creep refers to the act of moving slowly and quietly, often in a stealthy manner. It can also refer to a gradual change or deformation, especially in the context of materials science. Additionally, "creep" can describe someone who behaves in an unsettling or socially awkward way.

Parts of Speech

• Verb
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /kriːp/
• Respelling: kreep

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /kriːp/
• Respelling: kreep

The pronunciation of "creep" is the same in both American and British English.

Etymology

The word "creep" comes from the Old English word "crēopan," meaning "to move slowly" or "crawl." It has Germanic roots and has been used in English since the early Middle Ages to describe slow, stealthy movements. Over time, the meaning expanded to include various metaphorical uses.

Derivatives

• Creeping (verb)
• Creeper (noun)
• Creepy (adjective)
• Creepiness (noun)
• Creep up (phrasal verb)

Synonyms

• Slither
• Crawl
• Sneak

Antonyms

• Dash
• Sprint
• Rush

Usage

The verb "creep" is commonly used to describe someone or something moving slowly, quietly, or stealthily, often to avoid detection. In everyday language, it can describe how people or objects approach gradually. It is also used metaphorically to describe gradual processes, such as price increases or material deformation under stress in physics and engineering. As a noun, "creep" can refer to a person whose behavior is socially awkward or unnerving.

Related Terms

• Slither: To move smoothly over a surface, typically in a twisting motion.
• Tiptoe: To walk quietly and carefully on the balls of one’s feet.
• Sneak: To move quietly and secretly to avoid being noticed.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To move slowly and quietly: Refers to making a movement in a secretive or stealthy manner.
  • Example: "The cat crept across the room, trying not to be noticed."
• To occur gradually or insidiously: Describes a slow and often unnoticed process.
  • Example: "Inflation began to creep up over the year."

Noun

• A person who behaves in a socially awkward or unsettling way: Refers to someone whose actions make others uncomfortable.
  • Example: "Everyone in the office thought he was a bit of a creep."
• The slow movement or deformation of a material: Describes the gradual change in shape under stress, particularly in materials science.
  • Example: "The metal showed signs of creep after prolonged exposure to heat."