predatory
- 01 B2 Upper Intermediate
describes animals that live by killing and eating other animals.
relating to or characterized by the practice of preying on other organisms for food.
Simple“The eagle is a predatory bird that hunts small mammals from the sky.”
In context“The introduction of predatory species into the isolated island ecosystem led to a rapid decline in the native flightless bird population.”
UsageOften used in biological contexts to describe a species' place in the food chain.
Synonyms - 02 C2 Proficiency
having a look or manner that suggests you are looking for something to attack or take.
suggestive of a predator in appearance or manner; often used to describe a facial expression or gaze.
Simple“He watched the other players with a predatory smile, waiting for them to make a mistake.”
In context“There was something predatory in the way the investor surveyed the struggling startup, as if he were measuring it for a hostile takeover.”
Teacher's tipThis sense is often used in literature to create a sense of danger or unease around a character.
Synonymsvulturineaggressive
“Sentenced in 2003 for a predatory sexual assault against a 10-year-old boy, involving luring the child into a vehicle and driving to a secluded area.”
“Our prime minister has handed Australian screens over to predatory gambling companies.”
Borrowed from Latin praedātōrius, equivalent to predator + -y.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.