prowl

[proul]

verb (used without object)

1. to rove or go about stealthily, as in search of prey, something to steal, etc.

   Synonyms: roam

verb (used with object)

1. to rove over or through in search of what may be found.

   The cat prowled the alleys in search of food.

noun

1. act of prowling.

prowl

/ praʊl /

verb

1. to move stealthily around (a place) as if in search of prey or plunder

noun

1. the act of prowling

2. 1. moving around stealthily

   2. zealously pursuing members of the opposite sex

Other Word Forms

• prowlingly adverb
• unprowling adjective
• prowler noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of prowl¹

First recorded in 1350–1400; Middle English prollen; origin uncertain

Word History and Origins

Origin of prowl¹

C14 prollen, of unknown origin

Idioms and Phrases

Idioms

1. on the prowl, in the act of prowling; searching stealthily.

   The cat is on the prowl for mice.

Synonym Study

See lurk.

Example Sentences

Dozens of self-help books and therapy sessions later, I’m still on the prowl for something that makes sense of it all.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

That is the result of the carceral state, whereby ICE and the National Guard prowl the streets, creeping out normal people going about their business.

Read more on Salon

He was not able to change the narrative prowling his technical area.

Read more on BBC

"The big thing is getting the speeds," said Kenyon, who will be prowling the practice putting green "keeping on top of the maintenance" of his players.

Read more on BBC

With Taylor in the corner towards the end of the round and the challenger prowling, the Irishwoman again let a rapid flurry go as she enjoyed the first success of not in the fight.

Read more on BBC

Related Words

• lurk 
• roam 
• scavenge 
• skulk 
• slink 
• stroll 
• tramp