Predators Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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predators
[ˈprɛdətərz ]
Definition
animals hunting other animals
Predators are animals that hunt and kill other animals for food. They are an important part of the ecosystem, helping to control populations of prey species. Predators can range in size from small insects to large mammals.
Synonyms
carnivores, hunters, predatory animals.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| predators |
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.
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| hunters |
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.
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| carnivores |
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.
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| predatory animals |
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.
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Examples of usage
- Predators such as lions and tigers are at the top of the food chain.
- The cheetah is known for its speed and agility as a predator in the savannah.
- Owls are nocturnal predators that hunt small mammals and birds.
- The wolf is a social predator that hunts in packs for efficiency.
- Humans are also considered predators, hunting various animals for food and resources.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Ecology
- Predators can be divided into different categories, such as primary, secondary, and tertiary, each with distinct roles in the food chain.
- They help maintain balance in ecosystems by controlling the populations of prey species.
- Top predators, like lions and sharks, dictate the health of their environment by keeping other animal populations in check.
Pop Culture
- The film 'Predator' introduced viewers to a science fiction creature that hunts humans in a jungle, blending horror and action genres.
- In video games, predators often represent the ultimate challenge for players, as they must overcome these creatures to progress.
- Nature documentaries often showcase predators in action, emphasizing their hunting strategies and survival skills.
Biology
- Predators often possess physical features like sharp teeth or claws that make catching prey easier.
- Many species have developed camouflage to ambush or sneak up on their prey, enhancing their hunting success.
- Some predators exhibit pack behavior, allowing them to work together to hunt larger prey more effectively.
Psychology
- The concept of predation can be used metaphorically in human behavior, describing aggressive or competitive actions in social settings.
- Cognitive biases can lead people to view others as 'predators' when they act in self-serving ways or exploit others for gain.
- Predatory behavior, in a psychological sense, may relate to instincts of survival and competition for resources.
Origin of 'predators'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'predator' comes from the Latin word 'praedator', which means 'one who plunders'.
- Originally, 'predator' was used in the context of humans who would take advantage of others before being applied to animals.
- The term has evolved to describe various species that have adapted to active hunting.
The word 'predator' originated from the Latin word 'praedator', which means 'plunderer' or 'robber'. It has been used in English since the 17th century to describe animals that hunt and kill other animals for food. Predators play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of ecosystems by controlling the populations of prey species.