'predator' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'praedator', where 'praeda' meant 'booty' or 'plunder'.

'predator' changed from the Latin word 'praedator' (and Medieval/Old French forms like 'predateur') and eventually became the modern English word 'predator' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'plunderer' or 'one who takes spoil', but over time it evolved to include the current meanings of 'an animal that hunts other animals' and figuratively 'someone who exploits others'.