in such a way as to

grow or spread, often in such a way as to cover (a surface)

in the case of people or animals with the body near the ground v to go stealthily or furtively v grow or spread, often in such a way as to cover (a surface) v show submission or fear

someone who deliberately behaves in such a way as to attract attention

to act in such a way as to cause an offense to seem less serious

n to act in such a way as to cause an offense to seem less serious n a partial excuse to mitigate censure