lurker

American  

[lurk-er] / ˈlɜrk ər /

noun

plural

lurkers

1. Digital Technology. a person who reads or listens in on an online conversation without taking part.

2. a person who lurks, lying in wait or moving around stealthily in a place.

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Other Word Forms

• delurker noun
• lurkerdom noun
• nonlurker noun
• semi-lurker noun

Example Sentences

Scientists are still sorting out the answer, but it’s clear that these kinds of cells aren’t merely passive lurkers.

From The Wall Street Journal

“I went to them and said, ‘Hey, can we have one of those stilt walkers?’” says Slash, referring to the larger-than-life lurkers who haunt guests during the festivities.

From Los Angeles Times

When he cranked up the pyro on the midcareer lurker ballad “The Hills,” the front rows of SoFi got a bracing reminder of how volatile this music is even when it sits atop streaming charts.

From Los Angeles Times

Knowing that these pans are problematic, you may be tempted to toss any lurkers in your cupboard.

From Salon

Even as I delight in others’ connecting over the internet, I remain a confirmed lurker.

From New York Times