Etymology

Noun

1. The movement of something that creeps (like worms or snails)
2. A relatively small gradual change, variation or deviation (from a planned value) in a measure.
3. A slight displacement of an object: the slight movement of something
4. In sewn books, the tendency of pages on the inside of a quire to stand out farther than those on the outside of it.
5. An increase in strain with time; the gradual flow or deformation of a material under stress.
6. The imperceptible downslope movement of surface rock.
7. An annoying irritating person
8. A frightening and/or disconcerting person, especially one who gives the speaker chills or who induces psychosomatic facial itching.

   Stop following me, you creep!

9. A barrier with small openings used to keep large animals out while allowing smaller animals to pass through.

Verb

1. To move slowly with the abdomen close to the ground.

   Lizards and snakes crept over the ground.

2. Of plants, to grow across a surface rather than upwards.
3. To move slowly and quietly in a particular direction.

   He tried to creep past the guard without being seen.

4. To make small gradual changes, usually in a particular direction.

   Prices have been creeping up all year.