lurk

[lɜːk]

lurk Definition

• 1. 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
• 2. to 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

• skulk
• creep
• sneak
• prowl
• hide

Antonyms for lurk

• emerge
• appear

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.