prowling
word · lemma: prowl
Definition
Moving quietly or secretly around a place, often while looking for something to steal or catch; commonly used for animals or people acting suspiciously.
Usage & Nuances
Usually describes slow, careful, and sneaky movement, especially at night or when trying not to be noticed. Common collocations: 'prowling the streets', 'prowling around', 'cats prowling'. Often implies an intention to hunt or commit a crime.
Spanish: merodearPortuguese (BR): rondarPortuguese (PT): rondarChinese (Simplified): 徘徊Chinese (Traditional): 徘徊Hindi: घूमना (छिपकर) - घात लगाकर घूमनाArabic: يتسلل - يترصد
Example Sentences
There is a man prowling outside the store.
basic
The tiger was prowling in the jungle.
basic
A cat was prowling around the garden.
basic
I saw a fox prowling near the chicken coop last night.
natural
Police caught someone prowling behind the houses.
natural
Stray dogs are always prowling the neighborhood at night.
natural