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predator

noun C1 Formal

Meaning

A predator is an organism, typically within the animal kingdom, that preys upon other organisms for sustenance, exhibiting behaviors and adaptations that enhance its ability to hunt, capture, and consume its prey, thereby playing a crucial role in ecologi
💡 The term "predator" is often misused to describe aggressive or harmful individuals in human contexts; however, in ecological terms, it specifically refers to species that hunt other species for food.

Example Sentences

The company acted as a predator in acquiring smaller competitors quickly .
The predator carefully stalked its prey in the dense forest .
The predator quietly stalked its prey through the dense forest .
The predator's impact on the ecosystem was studied extensively .

Word in Context

On a cool morning in the reserve , a young ecologist sat quietly in a blind , recording the movements of a fox as it moved through the undergrowth . She noted how the predator paused to scan the field , assessing both risks and opportunities with a patient , almost deliberate calm . These moments revealed subtle adaptations — keen hearing and a cautious gait — that allow certain species to persist in a shifting landscape . By documenting such behaviour across seasons , researchers can better understand how changes in habitat affect the balance between hunters and their prey . Her report aimed to translate those observations into practical recommendations for land management , ensuring the ecosystem remained resilient while supporting both wildlife and local communities .

Common Phrases

apex predator predator-prey relationship predatory behavior

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