transferred and figurative. Moving slowly, stealthily, or by imperceptible degrees. Also applied to a flaw or crack in steel.

Marked or characterized by secrecy or stealth; working, moving, etc., in a stealthy or underhand manner. Also of places: Quiet, secret.

That prowls (in senses of the verb).

That steals or moves stealthily; that eludes observation; that glides or creeps softly along; that comes on imperceptibly. In early use chiefly in ste…

That sneaks; moving, walking, acting, etc., in a furtive or slinking manner. Also transferred.

(a) stealthy in movement; (b) (see quot. 1883).

Having a soft or light tread. poetic. Used figuratively of the passage of time or the movement of incorporeal or ethereal things.

Creeping beneath or stealthily.

Like a cat, or that of a cat; esp. stealthy, noiseless of tread.

Of movement or action: Taking place by stealth; calculated to elude observation; proceeding by imperceptible degrees; furtive. Of persons or…

Of something or someone unwelcome, harmful, etc.: widespread, prevalent, endemic; flourishing or spreading unchecked; spec. (of a disease) raging.

Slow-moving, dilatory; sneaking; stealing imperceptibly.

That creeps like a mouse so as to escape notice; furtive, timid, shy.

Kept from knowledge or observation; hidden, concealed. Of actions, negotiations, agreements, etc.: Done or entered into with the intention of being…

That slinks; moving, walking, etc. in a furtive or stealthy manner; marked or characterized by stealth or secrecy.

Having a soft or cat-like tread; light-footed. Also: excessively cautious or hesitant; non-committal, evasive.

Evasive, non-committal; excessively cautious or hesitant.

Of a woman, esp. from the manner of her dress: sinuous, slender, gliding; of a garment: close-fitting, as if moulded to the figure. In extended…