noun
lurking
noun
1
The act of waiting or hiding somewhere quietly, often with the intent to watch, ambush, or avoid being noticed.
"Security footage showed a figure lurking near the back entrance before the break-in."
"She spent months lurking in the forum before finally posting a comment."
How to Use Lurking
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishHanging around quietly out of sight, either to watch, wait, or avoid attention.
Memory tip
Online, "lurking" just means reading a forum or group without posting — it isn't always sinister.
Trace the full origin ↓
Common pairings
lurking in the shadows
lurking online
lurking around
Word Forms
lurkings plural
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Fill the Gap
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Security footage showed a figure _____ near the back entrance before the break-in.
Etymology
From the verb "lurk," meaning to wait in hiding or move stealthily.