verb
lurk
lurk
Lurk (verb) means to stay hidden or out of sight, often with the intention to ambush or wait. Example: “A cat lurked behind the bushes, watching the birds.”
verb
1
To stay hidden or out of sight, often with the intention to ambush or wait.
"A cat lurked behind the bushes, watching the birds."
2
To exist unnoticed as a threat or possibility.
"Danger lurks around every corner of the old mine."
3
To read posts on an online forum or group without ever posting yourself.
"He'd been lurking on the forum for years before finally creating an account."
How to use lurk
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo hide and wait unseen — or, online, to read without posting.
Common pairings
lurk in the shadows
lurk online
danger lurks
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Word forms
- Plural
- lurks
- Third person singular
- lurks
- Past tense
- lurked
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
A cat _____ behind the bushes, watching the birds.
Etymology
From Middle English lurken, likely from an Old Norse root related to lour, meaning to lie in wait.
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for lurk
See all rhymes for lurk →Frequently asked questions
What does “lurk” mean?
The word “lurk” means to stay hidden or out of sight, often with the intention to ambush or wait. In plain terms, to hide and wait unseen — or, online, to read without posting.
How do you pronounce “lurk”?
“Lurk” is pronounced lurk (/lɝk/ in IPA).
How do you use “lurk” in a sentence?
Here is “lurk” used in a sentence: “A cat lurked behind the bushes, watching the birds.”
What part of speech is “lurk”?
“Lurk” is a verb.
Where does the word “lurk” come from?
The word “lurk” comes from Middle English. From Middle English lurken, likely from an Old Norse root related to lour, meaning to lie in wait.
How many meanings does “lurk” have?
“Lurk” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to stay hidden or out of sight, often with the intention to ambush or wait.
