# carrion

/ˈkɛɹiən/ (US) · /kˈæɹiən/ (UK) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/carrion
Updated: 2026-05-30

## Definition

the dead body of an animal that has been killed by a predator or died naturally. It is often eaten by scavengers like vultures or jackals.

For teachers: the decaying flesh of a dead animal, typically consumed by scavengers. Often carries a strong, unpleasant odour and is associated with the remains of large mammals.

## Examples

- The vultures circled above the carrion in the desert.
- After the lion finished its meal, the hyenas arrived to scavenge the remaining carrion.
- The scent of carrion drifted across the valley, attracting a host of scavengers that had been waiting for the remains of the fallen herd.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.