peep

Everyday

1. To peep is to look quickly and secretly, often through a small hole or gap. tree →
2. A peep is a quick look. tree →
3. A peep is a short, high sound, like a baby bird makes. tree →
4. "Not a peep" means no sound or no complaint at all. tree →

In the lessons

In stories, characters peep through keyholes or curtains; "Peeping Tom" means someone who spies on people, which is wrong. In games, peek-a-boo and "No peeping!" in hide-and-seek. Phrases: "peep out", "take a peep", "not a peep out of you".

Examples

• She peeped through the curtains. tree →
• No peeping while I hide! tree →
• Take a peep inside the box. tree →
• The chicks gave a little peep. tree →
• I don't want to hear a peep out of you. tree →
• The sun peeped out from behind the clouds. tree →
• He peeped inside the closet--no one! tree →

Note

Regular verb: peeped, peeping. Similar: peek. Sound meaning: peep, cheep, tweet.