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
Idioms Using prey
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.
Example
The tourist was easy prey for pickpockets in the crowded market.
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.
Example
The town was the prey of a devastating tornado that destroyed many homes and businesses.
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'
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.
