predatory
|pred/a/to/ry|
🇺🇸
/ˈprɛdəˌtɔri/
🇬🇧
/ˈprɛdətəri/
exploiting or preying
Etymology
'predatory' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'praedatorius,' where 'praeda' meant 'prey.'
'praedatorius' transformed into the French word 'prédateur,' and eventually became the modern English word 'predatory' through Middle English.
Initially, it meant 'related to prey,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'exploiting others.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
relating to or denoting an animal or animals preying naturally on others.
The lion is a predatory animal.
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Adjective 2
seeking to exploit or oppress others for personal gain.
The company was accused of predatory lending practices.
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Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:45