Peek Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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peek

[piːk ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

to take a quick look

To peek means to take a quick look or glance, usually in a secretive or sly manner. It is often done to see something without being noticed or to satisfy curiosity.

Synonyms

glance, peekaboo, sneak a look, spy.

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Word Description / Examples
peek

Used when you look quickly or secretly at something you are not supposed to see. Often implies curiosity or eagerness.

  • She took a peek at her birthday present before it was wrapped
  • He couldn't resist taking a quick peek at the surprise
glance

Used when looking quickly or briefly at something. It often implies a casual or non-intrusive look.

  • She glanced at her watch to check the time
  • He cast a quick glance at the menu before ordering
spy

Used when observing someone or something secretly, often for gathering information. It can also imply deceit or suspicion. Has a negative connotation.

  • He spied on his neighbors through the window
  • They accused him of trying to spy on their private conversations
sneak a look

Used when you carefully and secretly look at something, typically because you are not supposed to. It suggests a deliberate and cautious action.

  • He tried to sneak a look at her diary while she was out of the room
  • She sneaked a look at her phone during the meeting
peekaboo

A playful game often played with children, where one person hides their face and then suddenly reveals it, saying 'peekaboo'.

  • We played peekaboo with the baby to make her laugh
  • The toddler giggled every time we played peekaboo

Examples of usage

  • He peeked around the corner to see if anyone was coming.
  • She peeked through the keyhole to see what was happening inside.
  • Don't peek at your presents before Christmas!
  • I caught him peeking at my phone when I left the room.
  • The child peeked out from behind the tree to see if the coast was clear.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'peek'

The word 'peek' originated from Middle English 'piken', which means 'to look quickly'. Over time, the word evolved to 'peek' with a similar meaning of taking a quick look. The usage of 'peek' in English language dates back to the 14th century. It has maintained its definition of a quick, usually furtive, glance over the centuries.


See also: peekaboo, peeked, peeking.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #19,917, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.