to wait or move in a secretive way so that you cannot be seen, especially because you are about to attack someone or do something wrong or illegal, to exist in a hidden or less obvious way

lurking suspicion, lurk in the depths, lurk behind the scenes

lurk in the background, lurk in the shadows, lurk on social media

Formal and Informal Expressions of lurk

In different contexts, you can replace 'lurk' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'skulk, creep' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'hang out, chill' is a commonplace synonym.

lurk: Explore its Definition & Usage

lurk Definition

1to wait or move in a secretive way so that you cannot be seen, especially because you are about to attack someone or do something wrong or illegal
2to exist in a hidden or less obvious way

Using lurk: Examples

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

Example
The thief was lurking in the shadows.
Example
I always feel like danger is lurking around every corner.
Example
He's been lurking on the internet forums for years without ever posting anything.
Example
The answer to the problem was lurking in the back of my mind.

lurk Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for lurk

Antonyms for lurk

Idioms Using lurk

lurking suspicion
a feeling or belief that something bad or unpleasant is happening or will happen, even though there is no evidence to support it
Example
Despite the lack of evidence, she had a lurking suspicion that her partner was cheating on her.
lurk in the depths
to exist in a hidden or less obvious way, often referring to negative or unpleasant things
Example
The true nature of the disease was lurking in the depths, waiting to be discovered.
lurk behind the scenes
to work or influence events from a position of secrecy or obscurity
Example
The real power brokers of the company were lurking behind the scenes, pulling the strings from the shadows.

Phrases with lurk

lurk in the background
to remain unnoticed or hidden while still being present
Example
She prefers to lurk in the background and observe rather than participate in group discussions.
lurk in the shadows
to hide or remain unseen in a dark or shadowy area
Example
The criminal was lurking in the shadows, waiting for his next victim.
lurk on social media
to read or observe social media content without actively participating or engaging with others
Example
I don't post much on social media, but I do like to lurk and see what others are up to.

Origins of lurk

from Middle English 'lurken', meaning 'to lie hidden'

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Summary: lurk in Brief

'Lurk' [lɜːk] means to wait or move in a secretive way, often with malicious intent, or to exist in a hidden or less obvious way. Examples include 'The thief was lurking in the shadows,' and 'The answer to the problem was lurking in the back of my mind.' Phrases include 'lurk in the background,' and idioms like 'lurking suspicion,' denoting a feeling or belief that something bad is happening despite a lack of evidence.