to move quietly and secretly in order to avoid being noticed, to take or bring something secretly or surreptitiously

sneak preview, sneak up on, sneak thief

Formal and Informal Expressions of sneak

In different contexts, you can replace 'sneak' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'move surreptitiously, take secretly' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'slip, swipe' is a commonplace synonym.

sneak: Explore its Definition & Usage

sneak Definition

1to move quietly and secretly in order to avoid being noticed
2to take or bring something secretly or surreptitiously

Using sneak: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "sneak" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
He tried to sneak out of the room without being seen.
Example
She managed to sneak a peek at the test answers.
Example
He sneaked into the party without an invitation.
Example
The thief sneaked up behind her and stole her purse.

sneak Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for sneak

Antonyms for sneak

Phrases with sneak

sneak preview
an advance showing of a movie, television program, etc., before its general release
Example
We got a sneak preview of the new exhibit before it opened to the public.
sneak up on
to approach someone or something quietly and unexpectedly
Example
The cat sneaked up on the bird and caught it.
sneak thief
a person who steals things by moving quietly and secretly
Example
The police are looking for a sneak thief who has been stealing from local stores.

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Summary: sneak in Brief

To 'sneak' [sniːk] is to move quietly and secretly to avoid being noticed or to take or bring something secretly. Examples include 'He tried to sneak out of the room without being seen.' and 'She managed to sneak a peek at the test answers.' Phrases like 'sneak preview' and 'sneak thief' extend the term's usage.