Synonyms for

Prey

Verb / preɪ / Another word for prey — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Prey refers to an animal that is hunted and eaten by another animal.

Synonyms & similar words

feed raven predate quarry target fairgame quarry game victim target chase pursue hunt kill capture ambush attack strike assail assault pounce jump leap stalk

Synonyms by register

Formal

victim target quarry game

Informal

bait patsy sucker dupe

Literary

spoil booty prize

Antonyms

hunter predator aggressor attacker pursuer captor

Common collocations

  • fall prey to
  • prey on the weak
  • prey for the hunter
  • animal prey
  • human prey
  • easy prey
  • prey animal
  • prey species

Word family

noun prey
verb prey

Usage note

As a verb, 'prey' is often used with 'on' or 'upon' to indicate the act of hunting or exploiting. It can also be used metaphorically to describe someone or something that is victimized or taken advantage of.

Example sentences

  1. The fox stalked its prey through the grass.
  2. The shark circled its prey in the water.
  3. The owl swooped down to catch its prey.
  4. The cheetah chased after its prey on the savannah.
  5. The spider spun a web to catch its prey.

Quotes

  • The lion may be the king of the jungle, but it's the prey that keeps it alive. - Matshona Dhliwayo
  • Prey animals are experts at being prey. - Temple Grandin
  • In life, it's important to know when to be the predator and when to be the prey. - Paul Walker

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