Prey - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Prey refers to an animal that is hunted or caught for food by another animal. It can also describe a person who is vulnerable to harm or exploitation by others.
Definition:
An animal hunted or caught for food by another animal.
Synonyms:
quarry, victim, target
Part of Speech:
noun, verb
Antonyms:
predator, hunter
Common Collocations:
prey on, fall prey to, prey species
Derivatives:
preying, preyed
Usage Tips:
Use "prey" as a noun for hunted animals or as a verb meaning to hunt or exploit others.
Common Phrases:
bird of prey, easy prey, prey on one's mind
Etymology:
From Old French "preie," meaning "booty" or "plunder," derived from Latin "praeda."
Examples:
- 1. The lion chased its prey across the savanna.
- 2. Owls often prey on small rodents at night.
- 3. The spider waited patiently for its prey to get caught in the web.
- 4. Tourists can easily fall prey to scams in crowded areas.