Predators: meaning, definitions and examples

Use this word to describe animals that naturally hunt and kill others for food. This term can generally apply to a wide range of contexts, from scientific discussions to everyday conversation.

• Lions are apex predators in the African savannah
• The ecosystem relies on predators to maintain balance

Use this term to emphasize the act of seeking and capturing prey. It often points to the behavior and skills involved in catching and killing for food, and can be applied to both animals and humans.

• Cheetahs are skilled hunters, able to run at incredible speeds
• Hunters in the wild must be silent and patient

Use this word when referring specifically to animals that primarily consume meat. This term is more scientific and highlights the dietary habits of the animal.

• Tigers and wolves are classified as carnivores
• The digestive system of carnivores is designed to process meat

Use this phrase when you want to describe animals with a nature or behavior of hunting and killing for food. It carries a similar meaning to 'predators' but is slightly more descriptive.

• Sharks are well-known predatory animals
• Predatory animals play an important role in controlling the population of other species