skulking

Skulking is the act of moving stealthily or remaining hidden, often to observe someone or something or to avoid detection or attention. As a verb, to skulk means to lurk, prowl, or hide; as a noun, skulking denotes the state or act of hiding or lurking. The word’s origin is uncertain, but it has long been used in English to describe furtive, low-profile movement.

In human contexts, skulking can describe a person who moves quietly or remains out of sight to avoid notice, for practical reasons such as safety or reconnaissance, or for negative ones such as shirking duties or evading responsibility. It is commonly used in literature, journalism, and everyday speech to convey covert or nonconfrontational behavior. In discussions of law and public policy, related terms such as loitering with intent are more formal, but skulking conveys a similar sense of discreet, potentially suspicious activity.

In wildlife and ecology, skulking describes a tactic of staying hidden while observing, stalking, or approaching prey, or while avoiding detection by predators. Many predators and prey species rely on stealth and concealment as part of their foraging or defense strategies, and “skulking” can characterize the early phases of an interaction that unfolds out of sight.

Overall, skulking emphasizes discretion, secrecy, and quiet movement. The term remains informal and context-dependent, carrying nuances that range from neutral caution to disapproving avoidance.