Prey: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe an animal that is hunted and killed by another for food. It can also refer to someone who is vulnerable and targeted by a predator.

• The lion chased its prey.
• Scammers often target the elderly as their prey.

Often refers to someone who has been harmed, injured, or killed as a result of a crime, accident, or other events. This term has a more negative connotation.

• She was a victim of the robbery.
• The hurricane left many victims in its wake.

Usually refers to an animal or bird that is hunted. Can also mean a place where stone, sand, or other materials are extracted.

• The hunters followed their quarry through the forest.
• The workers extracted marble from the quarry.

Used to describe wild animals or birds hunted for sport or food. Can also refer to organized activities such as sports or competition.

• He went out hunting for big game.
• The children played a game of soccer in the park.

Use 'prey' to describe an animal that is hunted and killed by another for food. This word emphasizes the victim aspect in the hunter-prey relationship.

• The rabbit is common prey for the fox
• Lions often hunt their prey at night

Use 'hunt' to describe the act of actively searching for and killing animals for food, sport, or other purposes. This word focuses on the action of pursuing and capturing the prey.

• In many cultures, people hunt deer for their meat
• The cheetah is incredibly swift when it hunts its prey

Use 'capture' when describing the act of catching something or someone, often in a controlled manner or as a result of a strategic effort. This word may not always imply harm to the captured entity.

• Scientists managed to capture the rare bird for study
• The soldier was able to capture the enemy spy

Use 'stalk' when describing the behavior of an animal or person who follows their target closely and stealthily before making a move. This word often conveys a sense of careful and patient pursuit.

• The tiger silently stalked its prey through the tall grass
• The detective had to stalk the suspect for days before gathering enough evidence