stalk
UK: stɔːk | US: stɔːk
n. the main stem of a plant
vt. to pursue or approach stealthily
vi. to walk stiffly or haughtily
The word "stalk" has a dual origin in Old English. As a noun, it derives from stealc, referring to the stem of a plant. As a verb, it comes from the same root but evolved to mean "moving stealthily," likely influenced by the quiet, deliberate movement of a hunter or predator. Over time, the verb form expanded to include both literal pursuit and figurative stiff or proud walking.
The sunflower’s stalk grew tall under the summer sun.
The lion began to stalk its prey silently through the grass.
She felt someone stalking her and reported it to the police.
He stalked out of the room after the argument.
Deer often stalk through the forest at dawn.