prey on
In real, traceable use. Part of the curated seed collection; community review is coming.
Sense 1
Meaning · English
To eat (as prey).
Where it’s used:
Used
American English
Examples
Owls prey on small mammals, such as mice.
Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30)
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).
Sense 2
Meaning · English
To exploit or victimize.
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).
Sense 3
Meaning · English
To weigh heavily upon (a person's mind).
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).
Common questions
What does “prey on” mean?
To eat (as prey).
Is “prey on” formal or informal?
No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.