Stalks: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe the main supportive part of a plant, usually thin and elongated. Can also mean following someone closely and secretly, often with negative connotations.

• The rose's stalks were covered in thorns.
• He stalks her every move on social media.

Specifically denotes the main supportive part of a plant that holds leaves, flowers, or fruits. Can also mean something that originates or is caused by something else.

• The tomato plant has a thick stem.
• Many arguments stem from misunderstandings.

Refers to the main woody stem of a tree, or can also mean the main part of something, such as a car trunk or an elephant's nose.

• The tree's trunk was very wide.
• He packed his luggage into the car trunk.
• The elephant used its trunk to pick up the food.

Refers to a long, narrow part or section, such as in machinery or tools, or the main body of an arrow. Often used in a mechanical or structural context.

• The shaft of the arrow was broken.
• They had to replace the car's drive shaft.

Typically has a negative connotation, indicating obsessive following, often in a threatening or unwanted manner.

• She discovered that someone had been stalking her online.
• The creepy man stalked her through the mall.

Used in a general sense when someone is keeping up with a person, event, or topic. Often used in both physical and metaphorical contexts.

• She decided to follow her friend to the park.
• He follows the latest trends in technology.

Often used in professional or technical situations where someone is observing or checking something regularly over a period of time.

• The nurse needs to monitor the patient's vital signs.
• He installed software to monitor his computer’s performance.

Used when someone is trying to follow progress or locate something/someone. Can be used in both physical and metaphorical senses.

• The detective tried to track the suspect.
• He uses an app to track his running progress.