Predator

Pronunciation: /PREH-duh-tor/

Category: Behavior

Singular: Predator

Plural: Predators

Definition

An organism that hunts, kills, and consumes other organisms (prey) for sustenance.

Etymology

From Latin 'praedator', meaning 'plunderer' or 'robber', derived from 'praedari', meaning 'to plunder'.

Example

The praying mantis is a well-known predator, feeding on a wide range of insects.

Synonyms

Hunter

Related Terms

Prey
Predation
Carnivore
Herbivore

Usage Notes

The term 'predator' is used broadly in entomology and arachnology to refer to both insects and arachnids that actively hunt and consume other organisms.