peak
noun / verb
the highest point; to reach it
“Traffic peaks at 8 a.m.”
Sound-alikes
peak vs peek vs pique
A peak is a top point; a peek is a quick look; to pique is to stir up interest or irritation.
Quick test: A peAk is like the A of a mountain. You pEEk with your EyEs. Pique is French and goes with interest or curiosity.
peek
noun / verb
a quick look; to look quickly
“Take a sneak peek.”
pique
verb / noun
to arouse (interest); irritation
“The trailer piqued my interest.”
Try it: which word fits?
Drop each word into the blank. The explanation tells you why one works and the other doesn't.
The hike ends at the ______.
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Questions about peak vs peek vs pique
What is the difference between peak and peek and pique?
A peak is a top point; a peek is a quick look; to pique is to stir up interest or irritation.
How do I remember peak vs peek vs pique?
A peAk is like the A of a mountain. You pEEk with your EyEs. Pique is French and goes with interest or curiosity.
Are there exceptions?
"Piqued my interest" is the standard phrase; "peaked my interest" is a very common slip. "Sneak peek", not "sneak peak".
Still unsure?
Paste your own sentence and the tutor will explain which word it needs, and why.