Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

creep-up-on

phrasal verb
/kriːp ʌp ɒn/
Definition
To approach someone or something quietly and stealthily, often without being noticed.
Examples
  • The cat likes to creep up on birds in the garden.
  • He decided to creep up on his friend to surprise her.
  • Don’t creep up on me like that; you scared me!
Meaning
The phrase ‘creep-up-on’ indicates a gradual or slow approach, often surprising the subject of the action as they are unaware of the approach until it’s too late.
Synonyms
  • approach stealthily
  • surprise
  • sneak up on