Depredador Meaning and Definition
Depredador
Pronunciation
/dɛˈprdədɔr/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A predator, especially a carnivorous animal that pursues and destroys its prey, often in a ruthless or merciless manner.
Examples
- The big cat was a formidable depredador in the savannah.
- Depredadors like sharks and crocodiles feed on fish and other aquatic animals.
Synonyms
- Predator
- Hunter
Antonyms
- Prey
- Victim
Etymology
The word “Depredador” comes from the Spanish language, derived from the Latin words “de” meaning “from” and “predare” meaning “to prey”. It has been used in English to describe a predator since the 16th century.
Usage Notes
Depredador is often used in scientific and literary contexts to describe the actions of predators in their natural habitats. It can also be used figuratively to describe a person or entity that destroys or devours something, such as a business or an idea.
Cultural References
Depredador has appeared in various forms of media, including films, books, and video games, often as a metaphor for threats or dangers in the natural world or in human society.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- “To be a depredador to one’s own kind” means to be ruthless and destructive towards one’s own community.
Related Words or Phrases
- Predation
- Predator-prey relationship
Collocations
- Depredador of the night
- Depredador of the seas
Frequency of Use
Depredador is a relatively uncommon word in modern language, but it has seen increased use in recent years, especially in scientific and literary contexts.
Common Misspellings
- Gerbera
- Depradator