Predatory

/ˈpɹɛdət(ə)ɹi/ · adjective

Meaning

Of, or relating to a predator..

Definitions by Sense

1. Of, or relating to a predator.
2. Living by preying on other living animals.
3. (figuratively) Exploiting or victimizing others for personal gain.

Example Sentences

Harry Kane was back to his predatory best after struggling in the group stage, following up his goal against Germany by poking home a superb pass from Raheem Sterling after only four minutes.

And while there are plenty of benches, there's little shelter from the wind (or predatory seagulls the size of dogs) out on the platforms.

The mark of his father’s early life was strong upon him and enhanced by months of association with beasts, from whom the imitative faculty of youth had absorbed a countless number of little mannerisms of the predatory creatures of the wild.

predatory lending

predatory inclusion

One very important section of the denizens of Darkest England are the criminals and the semi-criminals. They are more or less predatory, and are at present shepherded by the police and punished by the gaoler.

The purpose of government was the guarding of property-rights, the perpetuation of ancient force and modern fraud. Or was it marriage? Marriage and prostitution were two sides of one shield, the predatory man’s exploitation of the sex-pleasure.

He remembered sitting quietly during visiting hours, not knowing what words of support to offer, and having to deal with predatory reporters who wanted to interview and photograph "the victim and the devoted lover."

Synonyms for predatory

Antonyms for predatory

Related Words

Word Forms

• more predatory
• most predatory
• prædatory

Usage Notes

Choose a synonym only when it preserves the intended meaning, tone, and grammar of the full sentence.

Practice and Learn More

Frequently Asked Questions