cannibals

word · lemma: cannibal

Definition

People or creatures who eat the flesh of their own species. Most often, 'cannibals' refers to humans who eat other humans.

Usage & Nuances

Mainly appears in historical, anthropological, or horror contexts. 'Cannibals' almost always describes humans. It's formal and not used in jokes; don't confuse with 'carnivores' (meat-eaters in general).

Example Sentences

Some tribes were called cannibals because they ate human flesh.

basic

In history class, we learned why some cultures were labeled as cannibals by explorers.

natural

Stories about cannibals can be very scary.

basic

The island was believed to be full of cannibals.

basic

I read a novel about cannibals living in the jungle.

natural

Movies about cannibals aren't really my thing—they freak me out.

natural