predator
n.-
1 hunting animal (n.) B2 Upper Intermediate Sciencean animal that hunts, kills, and eats other animals.
an organism that naturally preys on others, typically for food.
ExampleThe lion is a powerful predator that hunts zebras on the African plains.
ExampleThe introduction of a non-native predator into the ecosystem caused a rapid decline in the local bird population.
UsageOften used in biological contexts to describe the relationship between species.
- hunter
- carnivore
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2 exploitative person (n.) C1 Advanced Formala person who looks for people who are weak or vulnerable so they can hurt or use them.
an individual who ruthlessly exploits or victimises others for personal gain or gratification.
ExampleThe police warned the public about a financial predator targeting elderly people.
ExampleThe investigation revealed he was a corporate predator who systematically dismantled small companies for their assets.
UsageFrequently used in legal and journalistic contexts to describe criminal or unethical behaviour.
- exploiter
- vulture
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3 sexual predator (n.) C1 Advanced Formal Technical Lawsomeone who looks for people to attack or use for sexual reasons.
a person who seeks out others to commit sexual crimes against them.
ExampleNew laws were passed to keep track of known sexual predators in the community.
ExampleThe court classified the defendant as a dangerous sexual predator, citing a long history of premeditated attacks.
Teacher's tipThis is a very serious and heavy term; it is used in legal contexts and news reports rather than casual conversation.
Borrowed from Latin praedātor, from praedor (“loot, pillage”), from praeda (“booty, spoils, prey”).