creep

creep [krēp]

vi.

crept, creeping [ME crepen < OE creopan, to creep, lit., go bent down; akin to Swed krypa < IE base * ger-: see CRADLE]

1. to move along with the body close to the ground, as on hands and knees

2. to move slowly, stealthily, timidly, or furtively

3. to come on gradually and almost unnoticed: often with up

4. to cringe; fawn

5. to grow along the ground or a wall, as some plants

6. to slip slightly out of position

☆ 7. to change in shape as the result of constant stress, temperature, etc.: said of materials, metals, etc.

n.

1. the act of creeping

2. a creeping movement

3. the gradual deformation of a material, esp. a metal or alloy, due to constant stress, high temperature, etc.

☆ 4. Slang a person regarded as very annoying, disgusting, etc.

5. Geol. the slow, almost imperceptible movement of soil and loose rock down a slope

SYN.- CRAWL¹

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make one's flesh creep or make one's skin creep

to give one a feeling of fear, repugnance, etc.

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the creeps

Informal a feeling of fear, repugnance, etc.