Slink
slɪŋk
Definitions
2 meaningsTo move in a stealthy, furtive, or sinuous way.
slɪŋk
To move smoothly and stealthily.
She slinked out of the room, hoping no one would notice.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're trying to sneak into the kitchen for a cookie when everyone's asleep. You'd slink – move quietly and carefully, trying not to be seen.
👶 For kids: To walk sneaky and quiet, like a cat who wants to catch a mouse!
More Examples
The thief slinked down the alley, avoiding the streetlights.
He slinked past the sleeping guard.
How It's Used
"The cat slinked through the shadows, hunting for mice."
"He slinked away when he realized he'd been caught."
To move or slide smoothly along, often referring to clothing or fabric.
slɪŋk
To move slowly and gracefully
The silk gown slinked around her body.
💡 Simply: Think of a long, flowing dress that 'slinks' along the ground – it moves slowly, without much effort, and looks elegant.
👶 For kids: To move slowly and beautifully like a pretty dress.
More Examples
The fabric slinked over the model's figure.
The curtains slinked open as the wind blew through the window.
How It's Used
"Her dress slinked along the ground."
Synonyms
From Middle English slinken, likely from Old English *slincan (as suggested by the related Dutch slinken), of uncertain origin, possibly related to Old English slēac (slack).
The word 'slink' has been used since the Middle Ages to describe furtive movement, with its meaning evolving slightly over time.
Memory tip
Think of a snake slithering: it slinks.