What does slinking mean?
Slinking is the present participle of slink and describes moving in a quiet, furtive way, as if trying to avoid being seen or noticed. It is commonly used for people, animals, and figures in stories, and it often suggests suspiciousness, shame, or deliberate concealment. A person who is slinking through a doorway, for example, appears to be avoiding attention, while an animal slinking through undergrowth is moving stealthily toward prey or away from danger. The word can also be used figuratively for organizations, companies, or governments that behave in a devious or evasive manner. Compared with simply sneaking, slinking often gives a stronger visual impression of quiet, furtive movement.
Moving stealthily or furtively, especially in a way intended to avoid notice.
"The suspect slinked away from the entrance."
Usually describes deliberate, quiet, or evasive movement.
Characterized by furtive or stealthy movement.
"A slinking shadow passed along the wall."
Less common than the participial use; it often has a furtive or suspicious connotation.
A slink is the quiet, furtive movement of someone who hopes their presence goes unnoticed.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does slinking come from?
The word comes from the English verb slink, which is recorded from Middle English and is probably related to Old English slincan. Its precise ultimate origin is uncertain. The modern form developed alongside the meaning of moving quietly and furtively, and the present participle slinking preserves that sense in both literal and figurative contexts.
Related word forms
How slinking is actually used
Slinking is usually informal or descriptive rather than formal. It often conveys a furtive, guilty, or suspicious manner, particularly when applied to people or animals.
Easily confused with slinking
Slinking means moving stealthily or furtively, whereas slithering usually means moving with a smooth, twisting or wriggling motion.
Sneaking emphasizes concealing one's actions or presence, while slinking more strongly suggests a furtive, stealthy manner of movement.