Lurk: meaning, definitions and examples

Often used to describe someone staying hidden and watching secretly or appearing to be waiting in the shadows. This word can have a negative connotation, implying sneaky or suspicious behavior.

• He lurked in the shadows, waiting for the right moment to approach.
• The cat lurked around the garden, looking for mice.

Can be used in formal or scientific contexts where careful watching and noting of details are important. Implies a thoughtful or analytical approach.

• Researchers observed the behavior of the animals in their natural habitat.
• He loved to observe the stars through his telescope.

Suitable for situations where someone is systematically checking something for a specific purpose, such as tracking progress, performance, or changes over time. Often used in professional, technical, or formal settings.

• The scientist monitored the experiment closely to ensure accurate results.
• Teachers monitor students' progress throughout the school year.

A general term that can be used in many everyday situations where someone is looking at something attentively. More neutral and versatile compared to the other words.

• She watched the sunset with a sense of peace.
• He likes to watch movies on weekends.

Lurk is often used when someone is hiding or staying in a place secretly, waiting to do something or watching without being noticed. It can also refer to observing quietly in online forums or chat groups without participating much.

• She likes to lurk in online forums without posting
• The cat lurks in the shadows, ready to pounce

Skulk is used to describe someone moving secretively because they are hiding something or wish to remain unnoticed, usually with bad intentions. It has a negative connotation.

• He skulked around the office, trying to avoid being seen
• The thief skulked in the alley, waiting for an opportunity

Sneak is used when someone is moving quietly and secretly to avoid being seen or heard. It can have both neutral and negative connotations depending on the context.

• She sneaked into the kitchen to grab a cookie
• He tried to sneak out of the meeting early without anyone noticing

Ambush is used in situations where someone hides and waits to surprise attack or confront someone suddenly. It is often associated with a planned attack in a military, hunting, or figuratively in social environments.

• The soldiers prepared to ambush the enemy convoy
• They ambushed him with questions at the press conference