predator

[pred-uh-ter, -tawr]

noun

1. Zoology.,  any organism that exists by preying upon other organisms.

   Cats are carnivorous predators.

2. a person or group that plunders, pillages, or robs, as in war.

   The Vikings were barbarian predators.

3. a person, group, or business that exploits, victimizes, or preys on others: corporate predators who go after smaller rivals.

   a sexual predator who targets children;

   corporate predators who go after smaller rivals.

4. an overbearing, greedy or selfish person.

predator

/ ˈprɛdətə /

noun

1. any carnivorous animal

2. a predatory person or thing

predator

1. An animal that lives by capturing and eating other animals.

Other Word Forms

• antipredator noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of predator¹

First recorded in 1580–90; from Latin praedātor “plunderer, pillager,” equivalent to praedā(rī) “to plunder, pillage” (derivative of praeda “booty, plunder”) + -tor, agent noun suffix; prey, -tor

Example Sentences

"They should be using this money and resources to try to get rid of the predators and harmful content out there."

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Though another pack was recently euthanized, state wildlife officials say the population of the endangered predators is growing.

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The study shows wildebeest frequently crisscross the Sand River and the areas surrounding the Ritz-Carlton, even though they avoid forested areas nestling the camp due to the risk of predators.

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Although it’s a relatively small number, it represents a stunning recovery for the apex predators, which were hunted and trapped into extinction in the 1920s.

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In some reintroduction efforts, the animals actually have to be trained—taught—how to be wild: how to find food, avoid predators, seek shelter.

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