prey
/preɪ/
verb
- To hunt and kill another animal for food.
- Foxes prey on rabbits and other small animals.
- Lions often prey on zebras and wildebeests.
- The spider preys on insects that get caught in its web.
- To exploit or victimize someone who is vulnerable.
- Scammers prey on people's fears to steal their money.
- The con artist preyed on the elderly couple's trust.
- Bullies often prey on quieter students in the hallways.
- To cause constant worry or distress (usually followed by 'on' or 'upon').
- Guilt preyed upon him long after the argument.
- The thought of the exam preyed on her mind all week.
- Financial troubles prey on many families during hard times.
noun
- An animal that is hunted and killed by another animal for food.
- Mice are common prey for owls and hawks.
- The cheetah uses its speed to catch its prey.
- The lion stalked its prey through the tall grass.
- A person or thing that is vulnerable to attack, harm, or exploitation.
- The small company was easy prey for the larger corporation.
- Elderly people can become prey to online scams.
- Tourists are often prey for pickpockets in crowded areas.
Antonyms