Emily Dickinson Lexicon

STALK, v.i. [Sax. stælcan.]

1. To walk with high and proud steps; usually implying the affectation of dignity, and hence the word usually expresses dislike. The poets however use the word to express dignity of step. With manly mien he stalk'd along the ground. – Dryden. Then stalking through the deep / He fords the ocean. – Addison.
2. It is used with some insinuation of contempt or abhorrence. – Johnson. Bertran / Stalks close behind her, like a witch's fiend, / Pressing to be employ'd. – Dryden. 'Tis not to stalk about and draw fresh air / From time to time. – Addison.
3. To walk behind a stalking horse or behind a cover. The king crept under the shoulder of his led horse, and said, I must stalk. – Bacon.