verb

skulk

SKULK/skʌlk/

To move or hide secretly to avoid being noticed.

The woman skulks along the hidden side of the wall.

An older woman slips along the concealed side of a garden wall, crouching and peering around its corner at a passerby facing away.

Etymology

skulkMiddle Englishto move furtively or hide

Middle English skulken described furtive movement or retreat into a secure hiding place. Keeping out of sight connects the word’s two uses: moving secretly and remaining concealed.

More examples

He skulked along the alley to avoid the guards.
The cat was skulking beneath the bushes.
She noticed someone skulking near the back entrance.

Forms

skulk · skulks · skulked · skulking

Similar words

sneak: Sneak means move secretly; skulk often suggests lurking to avoid notice or responsibility.
lurk: Lurk means remain hidden; skulk can include furtive movement as well.