First Known Use: 14th century
Dictionary
1slink
verb \ˈsliŋk\
: to move in a way that does not attract attention especially because you are embarrassed, afraid, or doing something wrong
slunk \ˈsləŋk\ also slinked \ˈsliŋ(k)t\ slink·ing
Full Definition of SLINK
intransitive verb
1
: to go or move stealthily or furtively (as in fear or shame) : steal
2
: to move in a sinuous provocative manner
transitive verb
: to give premature birth to —used especially of a domestic animal <a cow that slinks her calf>
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Origin of SLINK
Middle English, from Old English slincan to creep; akin to Old English slingan to worm, twist
Related to SLINK
Synonym Discussion of SLINK
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>.
2slink
noun
Definition of SLINK
: the young of an animal (as a calf) brought forth prematurely; also : the flesh or skin of such an animal
First Known Use of SLINK
1607
3slink
adjective
Definition of SLINK
: born prematurely or abortively <a slink calf>
First Known Use of SLINK
1750
SLINK Defined for Kids
slink
verb \ˈsliŋk\
slunk \ˈsləŋk\slink·ing
Definition of SLINK for Kids
: to move or go by or as if by creeping especially so as not to be noticed (as in fear or shame) <… he stuck his tail between his legs and slunk swiftly away … — Jean Craighead George, Julie of the Wolves>
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