Poach

/poʊtʃ/

Meaning & Definition

verb
To illegally take game or fish from their natural habitats.
They were caught trying to poach deer in the national park.
To cook (an egg) in simmering water.
I prefer to poach my eggs for a healthier breakfast.
To steal or take someone else's ideas, employees, or resources.
The other company has been known to poach talent from its competitors.

Etymology

Middle English: from Old French 'pocher' meaning 'to take, seize'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

poach an egg
To cook an egg without its shell in water.
poaching talent
Recruiting someone from another organization, often secretly.
to poach from
To take something from another source dishonestly.

Related Words

bribery
The act of giving money or gifts to persuade someone to act in one's favor.
fishing
The activity of catching fish for food or sport.
hunting
The activity of pursuing animals for food or sport.

Slang Meanings

To steal or take something in a sneaky way.
He totally poached my idea and presented it as his own.
To lure someone from another group or organization.
She's trying to poach friends from different social circles.