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Poaching: meaning, definitions and examples

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poaching

 

[ ˈpoʊtʃɪŋ ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

illegal hunting

Poaching refers to the illegal hunting, capturing, or killing of animals. This act often targets species that are endangered or threatened, contributing significantly to their decline. Poaching is a major concern in wildlife conservation and can have detrimental effects on ecosystems. The practice can also be driven by high demand for animal products such as ivory, skins, or body parts. Poachers often operate in protected areas where legal hunting is prohibited, putting both wildlife and local communities at risk.

Synonyms

animal trafficking, illegal hunting, wildlife crime.

Examples of usage

  • Poaching of elephants for their ivory is a serious issue.
  • Many organizations are working to combat poaching in national parks.
  • The poaching of rhinos has led to significant population declines.
  • Local laws are being strengthened to deter poaching activities.

Translations

Translations of the word "poaching" in other languages:

🇵🇹 caça furtiva

🇮🇳 शिकार

🇩🇪 Wilderei

🇮🇩 perburuan liar

🇺🇦 браконьєрство

🇵🇱 kłusownictwo

🇯🇵 密猟

🇫🇷 braconnage

🇪🇸 caza furtiva

🇹🇷 kaçak avcılık

🇰🇷 밀렵

🇸🇦 الصيد الجائر

🇨🇿 nelegální lov

🇸🇰 nelegálne lovenie

🇨🇳 偷猎

🇸🇮 krivolov

🇮🇸 ólöglegur veiði

🇰🇿 заңсыз аңшылық

🇬🇪 ბრაკონიერობა

🇦🇿 qanunsuz ovçuluq

🇲🇽 caza furtiva

Etymology

The word 'poaching' comes from the Middle English term 'pocchen,' meaning to encroach or trespass, especially relating to hunting. The etymology can be traced back to the Old French word 'pochet,' which means 'to enclose' or 'to put in a pocket.' Historically, the term was used to refer to the unlawful catching of fish or game, often on someone else's land. As societies began to formally regulate hunting and fishing rights, the connotations of the word shifted towards its modern context of illegal activity against wildlife conservation efforts. Over time, poaching has evolved into a serious global issue, closely connected to environmental conservation and the preservation of biodiversity. The illegal wildlife trade has grown exponentially, prompting international legislation and awareness campaigns aimed at combating poaching.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,487, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.