Definition of Sneak
Quick Meaning of Sneak
To go somewhere quietly and carefully so that people do not notice you; to do something without letting others know.
Detailed Definition of Sneak
To move quietly and secretly to avoid being seen or heard.
How to Pronounce Sneak
Stress pattern: O (1-syllable word).
Tip: Rhymes with 'peak' and 'speak'. The 'ea' makes a long 'ee' sound, not a short 'e'.
Watch out: Some learners pronounce it 'snack' instead of 'sneak' due to confusing the vowel.
Origin and Etymology of Sneak
Possibly from Old English snican or related to Scandinavian roots; origin obscure but Germanic
How to Use Sneak in a Sentence
Each example shows “sneak” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“The cat sneaked into the garden to hunt birds.”
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“She sneaked a look at her friend's answers during the test.”
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“The thief snuck past the security guard without being detected.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Sneak
Common Synonyms for Sneak
Smart Synonyms for Sneak — When to Use Each
- creep
- move slowly, often on hands/knees
- slip
- move smoothly and quickly away
- tiptoe
- walk quietly on the tips of toes
Antonyms of Sneak
Common Collocations with Sneak
These phrases pair with “sneak” in everyday English:
- sneak away
- sneak up on
- sneak a look
- sneak past
Common Mistakes When Using Sneak
Even fluent speakers slip up with “sneak”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: They sneaked the supplies in.
- ✓ Correct: They snuck the supplies in.
- Why: Both past forms correct; 'snuck' is more informal and common in American English
- ✗ Wrong: I will snuck by unseen.
- ✓ Correct: I will sneak by unseen.
- Why: Ensure consistent tense and aspect in written narratives
Words Confused With Sneak
- Sneak vs Creep: Creep = move slowly/fearfully on hands/knees; sneak = move secretly to avoid detection
Other Forms of Sneak
Frequently Asked Questions About Sneak
What is the meaning of "Sneak"?
To go somewhere quietly and carefully so that people do not notice you; to do something without letting others know.
How do you pronounce "Sneak"?
The IPA is /sniːk/. Rhymes with 'peak' and 'speak'. The 'ea' makes a long 'ee' sound, not a short 'e'.
What part of speech is "Sneak"?
"Sneak" is a verb at B2 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Sneak"?
Common synonyms include creep, slip, tiptoe.
How do you use "Sneak" in a sentence?
For example: "The cat sneaked into the garden to hunt birds."