Peeping: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when someone is secretly looking at something, often with a sense of invasion of privacy or curiosity. Generally considered intrusive or inappropriate.

• He couldn't resist peeping through the keyhole to see what was happening inside.
• She felt uncomfortable knowing someone was peeping at her from behind the curtain.

Used when someone is secretly watching or gathering information about others, often in a professional or secretive context. It can have both negative and positive connotations depending on the situation.

• The detective was spying on the suspect to gather evidence.
• He felt like his neighbors were spying on him.

Used when someone is trying to find out private information about someone else’s life. It has a negative connotation and implies unwelcome intrusion.

• It's rude to pry into someone else's personal affairs.
• She was prying into his past, asking very personal questions.

Used for a quick and brief look, often out of curiosity and usually without negative connotations.

• He took a quick peek at the birthday presents under the tree.
• She couldn't resist peeking into the bag to see what was inside.

Used when someone is moving quietly or secretly to avoid being noticed, often in a context of doing something wrong or forbidden.

• He tried to sneak out of the house without his parents noticing.
• She sneaked a piece of cake when no one was looking.

Peeping typically implies looking at something secretly or without permission, often in a creepy or inappropriate manner.

• He got caught peeping through the neighbor's window

Glance is a quick, brief look at something usually in passing or to gather a small amount of information.

• She took a glance at her phone to check the time

Glimpse refers to seeing something momentarily or partially, often without getting a full view.

• He caught a glimpse of the actor as she walked by

Peek implies looking quickly or furtively, often through a small opening or from a concealed position.

• She couldn't resist taking a quick peek at her birthday gift

Sneak connotes moving stealthily or looking in a secretive manner, often to avoid being noticed.

• He had to sneak into the kitchen for a midnight snack