What Does Peak Mean?
A peak is the pointed top of a mountain, or the highest point or level of something. As a verb, it means to reach the maximum.
Peak functions as a noun / verb / adjective.
What Does Peek Mean?
Peek is a verb meaning to look quickly, briefly, or secretly at something. As a noun, it means a quick or furtive glance.
Peek functions as a verb / noun.
Peak vs Peek: Key Differences
| Peak | Peek |
|---|---|
| The highest point or top | A quick or secret look |
| Related to summits and maximums | Related to looking or glancing |
| "Mountain peak" | "Peek through a keyhole" |
Examples of Peak in a Sentence
- The mountain peak was covered in snow.
- Tourism reaches its peak in July and August.
- Her career peaked in her early thirties.
- We drove during peak traffic hours.
Examples of Peek in a Sentence
- She peeked through the curtains to see who was outside.
- Take a peek at the menu before we go.
- The child peeked around the corner shyly.
- He couldn't resist a quick peek at his birthday present.
How to Remember the Difference
A peak is the top (think of the "A" as a mountaintop shape). To peek uses your eeyes (two e's for two eyes).
Common Mistakes
| Incorrect | Correct | Why |
|---|---|---|
| She peaked through the window. | She peeked through the window. | Looking secretly requires 'peek.' |
| Sales reached their peek in December. | Sales reached their peak in December. | The highest point is the 'peak.' |
| Take a peak at this report. | Take a peek at this report. | A quick glance is a 'peek.' |
If you are unsure which word fits, try Rephrasely's free grammar checker to catch errors instantly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What about 'pique'?
'Pique' means to stimulate interest ('pique your curiosity') or to feel irritated ('a fit of pique'). It is a third homophone of peak and peek.
What does 'peak performance' mean?
'Peak performance' means performing at the highest possible level. 'Peak' here acts as an adjective describing the maximum capability.
Is 'sneak peek' correct?
Yes. 'Sneak peek' (two words) means a secret or early preview of something. The correct spelling uses 'peek' (a look), not 'peak' (a summit).