sneak

[sniːk]

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snuck - sneak

An act of sneaking means moving quietly and secretly, often trying not to be seen or heard.

When we talk about sneaking, it usually means trying to do something without anyone noticing. For example, if a kid wants to get up early on their birthday and surprise their family with gifts, they might sneak downstairs before dawn to set everything out. Sneaking can also mean doing something that you're not supposed to be doing, like when a student tries to sneak an extra cookie from the cafeteria tray without paying for it. It's often used in situations where someone is trying to avoid getting caught or draw attention away from themselves.

How common is "sneak"?

Word sneak is considered uncommon in modern English.
It appears most frequently in fiction texts and less often in other writings.

Definitions

noun

One who sneaks; one who moves stealthily to acquire an item or information.
Example: My little brother is such a sneak; yesterday I caught him trying to look through my diary.
A cheat; a con artist.
Example: I can't believe I gave that sneak $50 for a ticket when they were selling for $20 at the front gate.
An informer; a tell-tale.
A ball bowled so as to roll along the ground; a daisy-cutter
A sneaker; a tennis shoe.
A play where the quarterback receives the snap and immediately dives forward.

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verb

To creep or go stealthily; to come or go while trying to avoid detection, as a person who does not wish to be seen.
Example: He decided to sneak into the kitchen for a second cookie while his mom was on the phone.
To take something stealthily without permission.
Example: I went to sneak a chocolate but my dad caught me.
(ditransitive) To stealthily bring someone something.
Example: She asked me to sneak her a phone next month.
To hide, especially in a mean or cowardly manner.
(with on) To inform an authority of another's misdemeanours.
Example: If you sneak on me I'll bash you!

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adjective

In advance; before release to the general public.
Example: The company gave us a sneak look at their new electronic devices.
In a stealthy or surreptitious manner.
Example: I was able to get a sneak peek at the guest list.

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Real examples of "snuck" in context

John Cena Reveals Peacemaker Season 2 Surprises, Reminisces on His First WWE Match (Extended)

Interview

I snuck you in a clip, man. We got a clip.

6:08