scavenger
word
Definition
A scavenger is an animal that eats dead things it finds, or a person who collects usable items from trash or waste.
Usage & Nuances
'Scavenger' is commonly used for certain birds (like vultures), animals, and people. For people, it's neutral or slightly negative depending on context. In science, it strictly refers to animals; for people, more often informal. Do not confuse with 'predator' (hunts live prey). Expressions: 'scavenger hunt' (game), not related to food.
Example Sentences
A vulture is a scavenger because it eats dead animals.
basic
Some people work as scavengers in big cities, collecting metal or plastic.
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Hyenas are well-known as scavengers on the African plains.
basic
You see a lot of scavengers searching for recyclables at night in my neighborhood.
natural
In the wild, being a scavenger can help animals survive when there's little food.
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During the festival, kids played a fun scavenger hunt in the park.
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