Meaning & Definition of word "Poach"
to
Poach
/poʊtʃ/
verb:
- 1. To illegally take game or fish from their natural habitats.
- Example: They were caught trying to poach deer in the national park.
- 2. To cook (an egg) in simmering water.
- Example: I prefer to poach my eggs for a healthier breakfast.
- 3. To steal or take someone else's ideas, employees, or resources.
- Example: 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 of poach
Meaning: To steal or take something in a sneaky way.
Example Sentence: He totally poached my idea and presented it as his own.
Meaning: To lure someone from another group or organization.
Example Sentence: She's trying to poach friends from different social circles.