lurk

verb \ˈlərk\

: to be in a hidden place : to wait in a secret or hidden place especially in order to do something wrong or harmful

computers : to read messages written by other people on the Internet in a newsgroup, chat room, etc., without writing any messages yourself

Full Definition of LURK

intransitive verb

a : to lie in wait in a place of concealment especially for an evil purpose

b : to move furtively or inconspicuously

c : to persist in staying

a : to be concealed but capable of being discovered; specifically : to constitute a latent threat

b : to lie hidden

: to read messages on an Internet discussion forum (as a newsgroup or chat room) without contributing

— lurk·er noun

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Origin of LURK

Middle English; akin to Middle High German lūren to lie in wait — more at lower

First Known Use: 14th century

Related to LURK

Synonyms: sneak, mooch, mouse, pussyfoot, shirk, skulk, slide, slink, slip, snake, steal

Antonyms: appear

Synonym Discussion of LURK

lurk, skulk, slink, sneak 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>. skulk suggests more strongly cowardice or fear or sinister intent <something skulking in the shadows>. slink implies moving stealthily often merely to escape attention <slunk around the corner>. sneak may add an implication of entering or leaving a place or evading a difficulty by furtive or underhanded methods <sneaked out early>.