Vulture Meaning and Definition
Vulture
Pronunciation
/ˈvʌltər/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A large, scavenging bird of prey, typically with a bald and hooked head, strong beak, and sharp talons, that feeds on carrion and often waits for prey to die before attacking.
Examples
- The vulture circled above the carcass, waiting for its chance to feed.
- Vultures are often found in deserts, searching for food.
Synonyms
- Carrion bird
- Scavenger
Antonyms
- Predator
- Hunter
Etymology
The word “vulture” comes from the Latin term “vulturus,” which is derived from “vultus,” meaning “face” or “countenance.”
Usage Notes
Vulture can be used as a metaphor to describe someone who is seen as a scavenger or a parasite, taking advantage of others without contributing anything.
Cultural References
Vultures have appeared in various forms of media, such as in literature, film, and television. For example, the vulture is a symbol of death and rebirth in some cultures.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
“Clean up the mess like a vulture,” meaning to take advantage of a situation or exploit others’ mistakes.
Related Words or Phrases
- Bird of prey
- Carrion
- Scavenger
Collocations
Vulture is often used in combination with words such as “carrion,” “scavenging,” “feeding,” and “desert.” For example, “vulture scavenging for carrion in the desert.”
Frequency of Use
Vulture is a common word in English, particularly in the context of zoology and wildlife conservation.
Common Misspellings
- Vultoor
- Vaultur