First Known Use: 1790
Dictionary
1seep
intransitive verb \ˈsēp\
: to flow or pass slowly through small openings in something
Full Definition of SEEP
1
: to flow or pass slowly through fine pores or small openings : ooze <water seeped in through a crack>
2
a : to enter or penetrate slowly <fear of nuclear war had seeped into the national consciousness — Tip O'Neill> b : to become diffused or spread <a sadness seeped through his being — Agnes S. Turnbull>
See seep defined for kids ADVERTISEMENT
Origin of SEEP
alteration of earlier sipe, from Middle English sipen, from Old English sipian; akin to Middle Low German sipen to seep
2seep
noun
Definition of SEEP
1
a : a spot where a fluid (as water, oil, or gas) contained in the ground oozes slowly to the surface and often forms a pool b : a small spring
First Known Use of SEEP
1824
SEEPY Defined for Kids
seep
verb \ˈsēp\
seepedseep·ing
Definition of SEEP for Kids
: to flow slowly through small openings <Water seeped into the basement.>
Learn More About SEEP
Browse
ADVERTISEMENT
Seen & Heard
What made you want to look up seep? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).