peek
UK: piːk | US: piːk
v. to look quickly or furtively
n. a quick or secret glance
The word "peek" originated in the late 14th century, likely as a variant of "peke" or "piken," meaning to look slyly or peer. It may be related to Middle Dutch "kijken" (to look) or Middle Low German "kīken." The word’s brevity and sharp sound evoke the quick, furtive action it describes. Unlike compound words, "peek" is a compact verb with no separable morphemes, reflecting its direct and immediate semantic function.
She took a quick peek through the window to see if the package had arrived.
The child peeked around the corner to spy on his friends.
Don’t peek at your birthday presents before the party!
He couldn’t resist peeking at the exam answers.
A peek at the sunrise made the early wake-up worth it.