What does sneakily mean?
Sneakily means in a furtive, secretive, or stealthy manner. It is used to describe actions performed quietly and discreetly, usually because the person does not want to attract attention or reveal what they are doing. The word frequently carries a negative implication: an action done sneakily may involve deception, evasion, or an attempt to get something without permission. However, it can also be used more neutrally for ordinary careful movement, as when someone enters a room sneakily to avoid disturbing others. In formal writing, alternatives such as furtively, covertly, or stealthily may be preferred, depending on the degree of secrecy implied. Sneakily is the adverb formed from the adjective sneaky and is common in both British and American English.
adverbIn a furtive or stealthy manner, especially with the intention of avoiding notice or concealment.
- In a furtive, secretive, or stealthy manner.
"She sneaked into the room while the others were talking."
"He removed the letter sneakily while no one was looking."
"The witness spoke sneakily rather than giving a direct account."
Sneakily captures the particular caution of someone who wants their actions—and their motives—to go unnoticed.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does sneakily come from?
Sneakily was formed by adding the adverbial suffix -ly to the adjective sneaky. The adjective derives from the verb sneak, whose English history reaches back to Middle English and Old English. The related words share a Germanic root associated with moving or acting in a furtive manner.
Related word forms
How sneakily is actually used
The adverb often implies deliberate concealment and can suggest dishonesty or furtiveness, although it may simply describe moving quietly to avoid being noticed.