creepy

adjective

ˈkrē-pē How to pronounce creepy (audio)
creepier; creepiest
Synonyms of creepy
1
: producing a nervous shivery apprehension
a creepy horror story
also : eerie
2
: of, relating to, or being a creep : annoyingly unpleasant
a creepy old man
creepily
ˈkrē-pə-lē How to pronounce creepy (audio)
adverb
creepiness
ˈkrē-pē-nəs How to pronounce creepy (audio)
noun

Synonyms of creepy

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Examples of creepy in a Sentence

There's something creepy about that guy. a fascinating but creepy stage show by an offbeat magician
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Long nozzle Most people would prefer to keep a healthy distance from creepy crawlies. — Bestreviews, Mercury News, 11 Aug. 2026 From giant ghosts and pumpkins to creepy characters and playful designs, larger-than-life inflatables are a fun way to take your outdoor Halloween decorations to the next level. — Casey Delbasso, ABC News, 10 Aug. 2026 The five-parter from Tiger King co-director Eric Goode features reptile dealers with a fondness for creepy crawlies and a loose connection to ethical and legal mores. — Matthew Carey, Deadline, 8 Aug. 2026 The monsters when finally shown in the light are more shrug worthy than creepy or terrifying. — Angelica Jade Bastién, Vulture, 7 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for creepy

Word History

Etymology

see creep entry 1

First Known Use

1836, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of creepy was in 1836

Phrases Containing creepy

Rhymes for creepy

See All Rhymes for creepy

Browse Nearby Words

creep up on
creepy
creepy-crawly
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Creepy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/creepy. Accessed 17 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

creepy

adjective
ˈkrē-pē How to pronounce creepy (audio)
creepier; creepiest
: having or producing a sensation as of insects creeping on the skin
especially : eerie
creepily
-pə-lē How to pronounce creepy (audio)
adverb
creepiness noun

More from Merriam-Webster on creepy

Nglish: Translation of creepy for Spanish Speakers

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