prowl
word
Definition
To move quietly and carefully around a place, especially when hunting or looking for something, often with the intention of catching or finding someone or something.
Usage & Nuances
Usually describes animals (like cats) or people moving in a secretive or sneaky way, especially at night. Can have a negative or suspicious feeling. Common collocations: 'on the prowl', 'prowl around'. Rare in formal writing, more common in storytelling or describing predators.
Example Sentences
There's a fox on the prowl near the chicken coop tonight.
natural
The tiger prowls at night in search of food.
basic
Cats often prowl around the house quietly.
basic
He saw a stranger prowl near his car.
basic
Police say thieves often prowl dark alleys late at night.
natural
I caught my little brother prowling around my room looking for snacks.
natural