Slinking Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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slinking

[ˈslɪŋkɪŋ ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

in a sneaky manner

Moving smoothly and quietly in a way that suggests a lack of confidence or shame.

Synonyms

creeping, skulking, sneaking.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
slinking	Often used to describe moving in a secretive or guilty manner, usually with the intent to avoid detection. It can imply a slow, stealthy movement. The cat was slinking through the garden, looking for a place to hide. After breaking the vase, he was slinking out of the room, hoping no one would notice.
sneaking	Similar to slinking, this word describes moving in a quiet and secretive way, often to avoid detection, and can imply dishonesty or deceit. He was sneaking a peek at the surprise party preparations. The thief was sneaking into the house through the open window.
skulking	Carries a negative connotation and is often used to describe someone hiding or moving in a stealthy way with a sinister or cowardly motive. He was skulking in the shadows, waiting for the right moment to strike. She noticed someone skulking around the back of the store.
creeping	Used to describe moving slowly and quietly, often to avoid being seen or heard. This word can also suggest an eerie or uncomfortable feeling. She was creeping down the hallway, trying not to wake anyone. The fog was creeping in from the sea, making the whole village look ghostly.

Examples of usage

He was slinking around the corner, trying not to be seen.
The cat was slinking through the bushes, stalking its prey.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

informal

A person considered to be contemptible or cowardly.

Synonyms

coward, weasel, wimp.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
slinking	This word is often used to describe someone moving quietly and secretively, usually because they are guilty or don't want to be noticed. He was slinking around the corner, trying not to be seen. The thief slinked into the alley, avoiding the streetlights.
coward	This term is used to describe someone who lacks bravery and is afraid to face danger or difficult situations. It has a negative connotation. He called him a coward for not standing up to the bully. Don't be a coward. Face your fears.
weasel	Used to describe someone who is deceitful and sneaky. It often implies dishonesty and cunning behavior. He's such a weasel, always trying to get out of trouble by blaming others. I don't trust him; he's a real weasel.
wimp	This word refers to someone who is weak and lacks courage or strength. It is often used in a derogatory way. Stop being such a wimp and go talk to her. They think he's a wimp because he doesn't like sports.

Examples of usage

Don't be a slinking coward, stand up for yourself.
He's just a slinking little weasel.

Translations

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

Origin of 'slinking'

The word 'slinking' originates from the Middle English word 'slinken', meaning to creep or crawl. Over time, it has evolved to describe someone or something moving in a sneaky or cowardly manner. The negative connotations associated with 'slinking' have made it a popular choice for describing underhanded behavior or individuals lacking in courage.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #32,865 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.

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32862 forswear
32863 scram
32864 rioted
32865 slinking
32866 lorn
32867 openwork
32868 forsworn
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