raptor

American  

[rap-ter, -tawr] / ˈræp tər, -tɔr /

noun

1. a raptorial bird.

2. Informal. a velociraptor or other small dinosaur with similar characteristics.

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raptor British  

/ ˈræptə /

noun

1. another name for bird of prey

2. informal a carnivorous bipedal dinosaur of the late Cretaceous period

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raptor Scientific  

/ răp′tər /

1. A bird of prey, such as a hawk, eagle, or owl.

2. Any of various mostly small, slender, carnivorous dinosaurs of the Cretaceous Period. Raptors had hind legs that were adapted for leaping and large, curved claws used for grasping and tearing at prey. Raptors were probably related to birds, and some even had feathers.

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Etymology

Origin of raptor

First recorded in 1350–1400; Middle English raptour “ravener; plunderer; bird of prey,” from Latin raptor “robber, ravager,” equivalent to rap(ere) “to seize by force, plunder” + -tor agent suffix; rape ¹ -tor

Compare meaning

How does raptor compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• velociraptor vs. raptor

Example Sentences

In a statement, the non-profit organisation said: "Any incident of raptor persecution is utterly condemnable, with the penalties already including a prison sentence along with an unlimited fine."

From BBC • Nov. 9, 2025

I hang a black raptor silhouette in the middle square, but that does not deter him.

From Salon • Jul. 19, 2025

You might spot a peregrine falcon or other raptor, including kestrels, which nest there.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 22, 2024

Some fossils are thought to represent previously undescribed species, including two additional pterosaur skulls and two small raptor dinosaurs.

From Science Magazine • May 15, 2024

The raptor leapt just as the brachy charged past, and Cymbeline and Amaya were ready for it.

From "Dactyl Hill Squad" by Daniel José Older