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prey

[preɪ]

prey Definition

  • 1an animal that is hunted and killed by another for food
  • 2a person who is easily deceived or harmed in some way

Using prey: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "prey" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The lion stalked its prey through the tall grass.

  • Example

    The hawk swooped down to catch its prey.

  • Example

    The scam artist targeted elderly people as his prey.

  • Example

    The company's competitors saw them as easy prey.

prey Synonyms and Antonyms

Antonyms for prey

Idioms Using prey

  • prey to one's own success

    to become a victim of one's own success, often by becoming complacent or overconfident

    Example

    The company became prey to its own success, failing to innovate and losing market share to competitors.

  • someone or something that is vulnerable or defenseless and therefore an easy target

    Example

    The tourist was easy prey for pickpockets in the crowded market.

  • prey on someone's mind

    to cause someone to worry or be anxious

    Example

    The thought of the upcoming exam was preying on her mind, making it hard to focus on anything else.

Phrases with prey

  • prey on/upon something/someone

    to exploit or take advantage of something or someone vulnerable

    Example

    The con artist preyed on the elderly woman's trust and stole her life savings.

  • to be the victim of something harmful or unpleasant

    Example

    The town was the prey of a devastating tornado that destroyed many homes and businesses.

  • a bird that hunts and feeds on other animals, such as eagles, hawks, and owls

    Example

    The falcon is a bird of prey that can dive at speeds of over 200 miles per hour.

Origins of prey

from Old French 'preie', from Latin 'praedam', meaning 'booty'

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Summary: prey in Brief

The term 'prey' [preɪ] refers to animals hunted and killed by others for food, or people who are easily deceived or harmed. It extends into phrases like 'prey on/upon something/someone,' denoting exploitation, and idioms like 'easy prey,' indicating vulnerability. 'Prey' also includes 'bird of prey,' referring to birds that hunt other animals, and 'prey to one's own success,' describing becoming a victim of one's own success.

How do native speakers use this expression?