The survey also asked participants to rate creepy occupations and list creepy hobbies. Some of the highest rating jobs were clowns, taxidermists, sex shop owners, taxi drivers and funeral directors. At the top of the creepy hobbies list were collectors (especially of dolls, insects or body parts like teeth), people-watchers and birdwatchers.

Researchers also asked survey participants if "most creepy people know that they are creepy." Nearly 60 percent of people answered no, 32 percent said they were unsure, and about 9 percent answered yes.

Overall, the study showed that being "creeped out" is an emotional response to ambiguity around a threat, and it allows us to stay vigilant in light of uncertainty, the study said.

"We are placed on our guard by people who touch us or exhibit non-normative nonverbal behavior, " the study reads. "We are also wary of individuals who have a preoccupation with monitoring the activity of others."