predator
- 01 B2 Upper Intermediate
an animal that hunts, kills, and eats other animals.
an organism that naturally preys on others, typically for food.
Simple“The lion is a powerful predator that hunts zebras on the African plains.”
In context“The 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.
- 02 C1 Advanced
a 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.
Simple“The police warned the public about a financial predator targeting elderly people.”
In context“The 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.
Synonymsexploitervulture - 03 C1 Advanced
someone who looks for people to attack or use for sexual reasons.
a person who seeks out others to commit sexual crimes against them.
Simple“New laws were passed to keep track of known sexual predators in the community.”
In context“The 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.
“This unsettling novel disorients us by asking who is really the predator, and who is the prey.”
“The small predator had unusually positioned legs that may have allowed it to move more efficiently than many earlier reptiles.”
Borrowed from Latin praedātor, from praedor (“loot, pillage”), from praeda (“booty, spoils, prey”).
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.