English Reference
verb · noun

hunt

v. · n.
US /ˈhənt/ UK /hˈʌnt/ hunt

  1. 01 A2 Elementary

    v.to chase and kill wild animals for food or as a sport.

    v.to pursue and kill wild animals for sustenance or recreation. Ambitransitive — can be used with or without a direct object.

    Simple

    In the past, people used to hunt deer to feed their families during the winter.

    In context

    The indigenous tribes continue to hunt traditional game using methods passed down through generations, ensuring the ecosystem remains balanced.

  2. 02 B1 Intermediate

    v.to look for something that is difficult to find.

    v.to search determinedly for someone or something. Often pairs with the preposition 'for'.

    Simple

    I had to hunt for my keys for twenty minutes before I found them under the sofa.

    In context

    Recruiters are currently hunting for a candidate who possesses both technical expertise and strong leadership qualities for the executive role.

  3. 03 C2 Proficiency Technical Engineering

    v.when a machine or part moves back and forth too much because it cannot find a steady speed.

    v.to undergo unwanted or forced oscillations in a control system, typically when a governor or motor fails to find a stable equilibrium.

    Simple

    The engine started to hunt as the governor struggled to maintain a constant speed.

    In context

    If the feedback loop is too sensitive, the actuator will hunt around the setpoint rather than settling into a steady state.

    oscillatefluctuateseesaw
  4. 04 B1 Intermediate

    n.an organized search for something or someone.

    n.an instance of searching or pursuing; a quest to find a specific object or person.

    Simple

    The police organized a massive hunt for the missing hikers in the mountains.

    In context

    After months of searching, her hunt for the perfect apartment finally ended when she found a studio near the park.

  5. 05 B2 Upper Intermediate British English

    n.a group of people or dogs that go out together to hunt animals.

    n.an association or organized group of people who participate in hunting expeditions, or the pack of hounds used.

    Simple

    The local hunt met at the village square early on Saturday morning.

    In context

    The traditional fox hunt remains a controversial topic in rural communities, often sparking heated debates about animal welfare and heritage.

The fox has forward-facing eyes to help it find and hunt the rabbit.

The Conversation· 31 Aug 2026

They might have an injured leg; they might have gotten kicked pretty badly from the last hunt.

Smithsonian Magazine· 31 Jul 2026
This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Common
Updated