Pronunciation: [slˈɪŋks] (IPA) 
The word "slinks" is spelled with a combination of the consonant sounds /s/, /l/, /ɪ/, /ŋ/, and /ks/. In IPA phonetic transcription, this is represented as /slɪŋks/. The initial consonant cluster /sl/ is followed by the short vowel sound /ɪ/, and the final cluster /ŋks/ is pronounced with a silent "k". The pronunciation of "slinks" is therefore sl-inks, with the stress falling on the first syllable.
"Slinks" is a verb form derived from the noun "slink," which primarily refers to the smooth and stealthy movement of a person or animal in a guilty or cowardly manner. When used as a verb, "slinks" represents the third-person singular present tense, present participle, and simple past tense of this action.
To "slink" is to move quietly and furtively, often with an intention to avoid notice or detection. It suggests a feeling of guilt, shame, or fear, as if the individual is trying to evade responsibility or escape disapproval. The movement associated with slinking is typically characterized by a soft, almost undetectable step, as well as a hunched or crouched posture to remain inconspicuous.
The term "slinks" can be used to describe both human and animal behavior. For example, a person caught doing something wrong may slink away from the scene to avoid being confronted. In the animal kingdom, creatures such as snakes or felines might slink when stalking prey or attempting to hide from potential threats. The action suggests a sense of stealthy movements, typically observed in creatures attempting to navigate their surroundings without attracting notice.
Overall, "slinks" describes a behavior characterized by quiet, careful, and often secretive movements done with a sense of guilt, shame, or fear, as the individual attempts to go unnoticed or evade scrutiny or accountability.
The skins of prematurely-born lambs, calves, &c.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "slinks" is derived from the Middle English word "slinken", which means "to creep or crawl". It can be traced back to the Old English word "slician", meaning "to creep, crawl, or glide". This Old English word likely originated from the Proto-Germanic word "slinkanan", which carries a similar meaning. Ultimately, the etymology of "slinks" connects to the idea of moving stealthily or in a sneaky manner.
