vulture
n. countablen. a large bird that eats dead animals. In a social sense, it describes a person who waits for others to fail or be in trouble so they can take something for themselves.
n. a large bird of prey that feeds primarily on carrion. Figuratively, refers to a person who predatory or opportunistically profits from the misfortune or weakness of others.
The vulture circled high above the desert looking for food.
As soon as the company declared bankruptcy, the vultures arrived to buy up its assets for almost nothing.
While ecologically vital for preventing the spread of disease, the vulture has long served as a literary symbol for those who thrive on the decay of others' fortunes.
Borrowed into Middle English from Anglo-Norman vultur, from Old French voutoir, voutre, from Latin vultur, voltur.
Often used metaphorically in business or legal contexts to describe opportunistic behavior.