How is the word lurk distinct from other similar verbs?
Some common synonyms of lurk are skulk, slink, and sneak. While all these words mean "to behave so as to escape attention," lurk implies a lying in wait in a place of concealment and often suggests an evil intent.
suspicious men lurking in alleyways
When might skulk be a better fit than lurk?
Although the words skulk and lurk have much in common, skulk suggests more strongly cowardice or fear or sinister intent.
something skulking in the shadows
When is slink a more appropriate choice than lurk?
The words slink and lurk can be used in similar contexts, but slink implies moving stealthily often merely to escape attention.
slunk around the corner
Where would sneak be a reasonable alternative to lurk?
While the synonyms sneak and lurk are close in meaning, sneak may add an implication of entering or leaving a place or evading a difficulty by furtive or underhanded methods.
sneaked out early
Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of lurkSome are found lurking in remote corners of the world, while others have been hiding right under our noses.—Real-Time News Team, Miami Herald, 17 Oct. 2025 The tension between Wall Street and Main Street was on display this week as the country’s top banks reported blowout earnings, while regional lenders spooked investors about risks lurking in their loan books.—Jason Ma, Fortune, 17 Oct. 2025 Most TDEs take place in the center of a galaxy, where a supermassive black hole lurks.—Keith Cooper, Space.com, 16 Oct. 2025 Roynon explains that color can lift good feng shui energy and mute any negative energy that may be lurking around.—Maria Sabella, Better Homes & Gardens, 14 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for lurk
She was hanged; her body thrown in the river and is often spotted wearing a green turban to hide her missing ear.
—
Noreen Kompanik,
Boston Herald,
26 Oct. 2025
Hosts Robert Mays, Zena Keita and Jason Goff look past the recaps and highlights to find the extraordinary stories hiding in ordinary weeks by talking to players, coaches, and newsmakers from all corners of sports.
Women’s Power Stride Tab Socks 3-pack Designed with training in mind, this three-pack of no-show socks boasts an interior grip that keeps them from slipping during use.
—
Sophie Dodd,
Travel + Leisure,
26 Oct. 2025
Messi picked up the ball from his compatriot Rodrigo De Paul in midfield and burst toward the backpedaling Nashville back line before slipping the ball outside to Luis Suárez.
—
The Athletic Staff,
New York Times,
25 Oct. 2025
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