CREEP IN Meaning and
Definition
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To "creep in" refers to the act of gradually and often stealthily infiltrating, entering, or advancing into a place, situation, or someone's consciousness. It typically implies a slow and unnoticed intrusion or intrusion without permission.
In a literal sense, "creep in" can be used to describe something or someone quietly finding a way into a physical space, such as an unwelcome visitor sneaking into a building or a plant growing slowly into a crack in the pavement.
More commonly, however, "creep in" is used figuratively to describe the gradual infiltration of thoughts, emotions, or an influence into someone's mind, perception, or behavior. For example, negative feelings like doubt, fear, or suspicion may creep in slowly, causing discomfort or anxiety over time. Similarly, a bad habit could start to creep in, gradually becoming more integrated into someone's routine without them fully realizing it.
The phrase can also denote the gradual encroachment or penetration of a situation or condition that was not expected or desired. For instance, unexpected expenses might start to creep in, discretely adding up and causing financial stress. Social or political changes can also be described as creeping in when they gradually become more prevalent or influential, often without immediate awareness.
Overall, "creep in" conveys a sense of subtle, often unnoticed infiltration or intrusion, whether it be physical, psychological, or abstract.
Common Misspellings for CREEP IN
- creepin
- xreep in
- vreep in
- freep in
- dreep in
- ceeep in
- cdeep in
- cfeep in
- cteep in
- c5eep in
- c4eep in
- crwep in
- crsep in
- crdep in
- crrep in
- cr4ep in
- cr3ep in
- crewp in
- cresp in
- credp in
Etymology of CREEP IN
The word "creep in" is a phrasal verb formed by combining the verb "creep" with the preposition "in".
The word "creep" has Germanic origins and can be traced back to the Old English word "creopan", meaning "to crawl, move slowly and stealthily". It is related to the Middle Dutch word "kruipen" and the Old High German word "kriufan".
On the other hand, the preposition "in" comes from the Old English word "inn", which has Indo-European roots. It evolved from the Proto-Germanic word "in", meaning "inside, into".
When combined, "creep in" suggests the action of moving slowly and silently into a particular place or situation.
Idioms with the word CREEP IN
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creep in (to sth)
The idiom "creep in (to sth)" means to enter or infiltrate something gradually, often unnoticed or without detection. It refers to the gradual and stealthy intrusion of a person, idea, influence, or a certain behavior into a particular situation or setting.
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creep in (to something)
The idiom "creep in (to something)" is used to describe a subtle and gradual entrance or introduction of something, often with negative connotations. It refers to something gradually and quietly finding its way into a situation, causing its presence to be noticed, even when its arrival was unexpected or undesired.
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creep in
"Creep in" means to enter or infiltrate slowly and unnoticed, often in a gradual or subtle manner. It can also refer to something gradually becoming apparent or occurring.
Similar spelling word for CREEP IN
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