(of a plant) growing along the ground or other surface by means of extending stems or branches

creeping ivy can do damage to the wall surface

(of a negative characteristic or fact) occurring or developing gradually and almost imperceptibly

a creeping sense of dread

the creeping onset of crass commercialism

move slowly and carefully in order to avoid being heard or noticed

he crept downstairs, hardly making any noise

(of a plant) grow along the ground or other surface by means of extending stems or branches

thorny roses crept up the dull gray walls

(of a plastic solid) undergo gradual deformation under stress