“Peak” and “peek” — it’s easy to mix them up, right? They sound exactly the same, which makes it easy to use the wrong one. Because they’re homophones, these two words are often confused. But they have entirely different meanings!
This article will clearly define “peak” and “peek” and touch on “pique” to help you remember the difference. We’ll even give you some mnemonic devices to help you keep them straight.
Defining and understanding “peak”
While “peek” has to do with glances and secrets, “peak” is all about the top. Let’s take a look at how it’s used.
“Peak” as a noun
As a noun, “peak” means the highest point or summit of something.
For example: “The mountain’s peak was covered in snow.”
While it often refers to mountains, “peak” can also describe a high point in time or achievement. “The company reached its peak performance last quarter,” is a good example of this usage.
“Peak” as a verb
As a verb, “peak” means to reach a maximum or highest point.
For example: “Interest in the product peaked during the holiday season.”
“Peak” as an adjective
As an adjective, “peak” describes the highest level or point.
For example: “Peak demand occurs during the summer months.”
What does “peek” mean?
The word “peek” can be used as a verb or a noun.
“Peek” as a verb
As a verb, “peek” means to take a quick look, often from a hidden place. For example, “I peeked through the blinds to see if the package had arrived.”
You might also hear the phrases “take a peek” or “sneak peek.”
For example, “Let’s take a peek at the new designs before we send them to the printer.”
“Peek” as a noun
As a noun, “peek” refers to the quick look itself.
For example, “I took a peek at the data, and it looks like we’re on track to meet our goals this quarter.”
How to tell “peak” and “peek” apart
The correct word depends on the context of your writing. “Peak” usually has to do with heights or maximums, while “peek” involves looking.
For example: “From the peak of the mountain, I took a peek at the valley below.”
Here are some tricks to help you remember the difference:
- “Peek” and “see” both have double “e”s, connecting them to the act of looking.
- “Peak” has an “a,” like the pointed top of a mountain.
What about “pique?”
Okay, let’s talk about “pique.” “Pique” (pronounced like “peak”) means to stimulate interest or irritation. For example: “That weird commercial really piqued my curiosity.”
While it sounds similar to “peak” and “peek,” it has nothing to do with them. You’ll often see it used as a verb or a noun:
- Verb: “The new exhibit piqued my interest in ancient history.”
- Noun: “She left in a fit of pique.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it taking a peek or peak?
It’s “taking a peek.” “Peek” in this context means to glance or look quickly. Think of it as taking a quick “peek” at something. “Peak,” on the other hand, refers to the highest point of something, like a mountain peak. So, if you’re trying to say you’re quickly looking at something, “peek” is the word you want.
Is it peek or peak interest?
It depends on what you mean! If you’re talking about arousing someone’s interest, you’d use “pique” interest. “Pique” (pronounced like “peak”) means to stimulate or excite. However, if you’re referring to the highest point of interest, you’d use “peak” interest. Context is key here!
Is it peak or peek performance?
It’s “peak performance.” “Peak,” in this case, refers to the highest level of achievement or performance. You’re reaching the top, the apex of your abilities. “Peek” simply doesn’t fit in this context, as it relates to looking or glancing. Reaching your “peek” performance makes no sense, but reaching your “peak” performance is something we all strive for!
In Closing
Let’s quickly recap: “Peak” refers to the highest point, “peek” means to glance, and “pique” means to provoke or stimulate. Choosing the right word depends entirely on context.
If you struggle to keep these terms straight, try using a mnemonic device or grammar-checking tools. With a little practice, you’ll be able to confidently distinguish between “peak,” “peek,” and “pique” in your writing.