Creeping: meaning, definitions and examples

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creeping

[ˈkriːpɪŋ ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

in a sneaky or gradual manner

Moving slowly and quietly in order to avoid being noticed or detected.

Synonyms

sneaky, stealthy, surreptitious.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
creeping	Use 'creeping' when describing a slow and gradual movement, often with an element of secrecy or quietness. This term is often used to describe physical movement but can also metaphorically describe gradual changes. The cat was creeping through the grass, unnoticed. The creeping feeling of unease began to settle in the room.
sneaky	Use 'sneaky' when describing someone or something that moves in a secretive, often deceitful way. This term usually carries a negative connotation, implying dishonesty or trickery. He took a sneaky glance at the answer sheet during the exam. The thief's movements were sneaky as he slipped into the house.
stealthy	Use 'stealthy' when describing actions or movements that are quiet and careful in order to avoid being noticed. It is often used to convey a sense of expertise or skill in avoiding detection. The ninja moved with stealthy precision, making no sound as he approached. Their stealthy approach made it difficult for the guards to notice them.
surreptitious	Use 'surreptitious' for actions that are conducted in a hidden or secret manner, often because they would not be approved of. This term carries a sense of secrecy and often has a slightly negative connotation. She cast a surreptitious glance at her phone during the meeting. The documents were passed in a surreptitious manner to avoid detection.

Examples of usage

He was creeping around the house trying to find a way in.
The creeping fog obscured the view of the valley.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

plants that grow along the ground or up walls

Plants that grow by spreading over the ground or by climbing up walls or trees.

Synonyms

climbing, trailing.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
creeping	Used to describe slow, gradual, and sometimes sneaky movement, often with a sense of anticipation or unease. The fog was creeping in over the valley. He felt a creeping sense of dread as he entered the old house.
climbing	Refers to the action of moving upward or ascending, typically towards a higher position, often physically like on trees or mountains, or metaphorically like in career advancement. She enjoys climbing mountains during her vacations. He is climbing the corporate ladder very quickly.
trailing	Often used to refer to following or being dragged along behind someone or something. Can also describe something that is being extended or hanging down. She was trailing behind the group during the hike. The dress had a long, trailing train.

Word

Description / Examples

creeping

Used to describe slow, gradual, and sometimes sneaky movement, often with a sense of anticipation or unease.

The fog was creeping in over the valley.
He felt a creeping sense of dread as he entered the old house.

climbing

Refers to the action of moving upward or ascending, typically towards a higher position, often physically like on trees or mountains, or metaphorically like in career advancement.

She enjoys climbing mountains during her vacations.
He is climbing the corporate ladder very quickly.

trailing

Often used to refer to following or being dragged along behind someone or something. Can also describe something that is being extended or hanging down.

She was trailing behind the group during the hike.
The dress had a long, trailing train.

Examples of usage

The creeping ivy covered the old stone wall.
We admired the beauty of the creeping jasmine in the garden.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'creeping' comes from Old English 'creopan', which means to crawl or move slowly.
Its use dates back to the 12th century, originally describing slow, stealthy movement.
The term has evolved in English to describe both physical movement and metaphorical ideas such as fear or unease.

Biology

Many plants exhibit creeping behavior, sending out tendrils or runners to spread over ground and establish roots.
Certain animals, like snakes and lizards, utilize a creeping method of movement to remain undetected by predators.
Creeping behaviors in animals can also be a survival strategy, allowing them to approach prey or escape danger.

Psychology

Creeping anxiety refers to a feeling of unease that gradually increases, often without overt triggers.
The term 'creeping' is used to describe slowly worsening feelings, like creeping sadness in mental health contexts.
This concept is often explored in literature and therapy, indicating gradual emotional changes.

Literature

In gothic literature, the creeping presence of ominous forces often builds tension and suspense.
Authors have described both physical and metaphorical 'creeping' to illustrate character emotions or foreboding.
Edgar Allan Poe used imagery of creeping sensations to evoke dread and a sense of lurking danger.

Pop Culture

'Creeping' has appeared in various songs and movies, often evoking themes of stealth or secretive behavior.
The term is frequently used in horror films to describe a slow build-up of fear, as suspense creeps in.
Online, 'creeping' can also refer to the act of curiously looking at someone’s social media without them knowing.

Translations

Translations of the word "creeping" in other languages:

🇵🇹 rastejando

🇮🇳 रेंगना

🇩🇪 kriechend

🇮🇩 merayap

🇺🇦 повзучий

🇵🇱 pełzający

🇯🇵 這うこと

🇫🇷 rampant

🇪🇸 rastrero

🇹🇷 sürünme

🇰🇷 기어가는

🇸🇦 زاحف

🇨🇿 plazivý

🇸🇰 plazivý

🇨🇳 爬行

🇸🇮 plazeč

🇮🇸 skriðandi

🇰🇿 еңбектеу

🇬🇪 მცოცავი

🇦🇿 sürünən

🇲🇽 rastrero

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #10,505, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.

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10502 exemplary
10503 fluoride
10504 bovine
10505 creeping
10506 billing
10507 watering
10508 dipole
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