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Definition of predatory

predatory

/ˈprɛdəˌtɔːri/
pred · a · to · ry
Adverb:predatorily
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predatory Lexical Profile

predatory Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Seeking to exploit, ruthlessly take advantage of, or oppress others for personal or financial gain.

Example

"Consumer protection agencies introduced new regulations to curb predatory lending practices."

2

Relating to or denoting an animal or organism that naturally preys on others for food.

Example

"Owls are nocturnal, predatory birds with exceptional hearing and silent flight."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for predatory
Antonyms
View all antonyms for predatory

• Rhymes for predatory

• Nearby Words

predate
predation
predator
predatory
predawn
predecessor
predefine

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the late 16th century from Latin praedatorius ('plundering, rapacious'), derived from praedator ('plunderer, hunter') and praeda ('booty, prey').

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Predatory. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/predatory
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