3 entries under this word
(peek), n. [A-S. peac, Fr. pic, pique, Pr. pic, Sp. & Pg. pico, pica, It. picco, picca, W. pig, Ir. peac, Gael. beic. Cf. BEAK and PIKE.] A point; the end of any thing that terminates in a point; specifically, (a.) the top of a hill or mountain, ending in a point; as, the peak of Teneriffe. (b.) (Naut.) The upper, outer corner of a sail which is extended by a gaff or yard; also, the extremity of the yard or gaff.
[Obs.] 1. To acquire sharpness of figure or features; to look thin or sickly. “Dwindle, peak, and pine.” Shak.
Sense 2. To make a mean figure; to sneak.
Why standest thou here, then, Sneaking and peaking, as thou wouldst steal linen? Beau. & Fl.
[imp. & p. p. PEAKED (peekt); p. pr. & vb. n. PEAKING.] (Naut.) To raise to a position perpendicular, or nearly so; as, to peak oars, to hold them upright; to peak a gaff or yard, to set it more obliquely to the mast.