Meaning & Definition of word "Wolf"

Wolf

/wʊlf/

1. A large wild carnivorous mammal (Canis lupus) that is a member of the dog family and is known for its pack behavior and howling.
- Example: The wolf howled at the full moon, filling the night with its haunting call.
2. A person who is aggressively predatory or exploitative.
- Example: In the business world, he was considered a wolf, always looking to take advantage of the competition.
3. A person who is secretly destructive or subversive.
- Example: He was a wolf in sheep's clothing, pretending to be supportive while undermining the project.

1. To eat or devour voraciously.
- Example: After the long hike, he wolfed down his dinner in just a few minutes.

Old English 'wulf', from Proto-Germanic *wulfaz, related to the Latin 'lupus' and Greek 'lykos'.

wolf in sheep's clothing:

A person who hides malicious intent under the guise of kindness.

thrown to the wolves:

To be put in a dangerous or difficult situation without support.

lone wolf:

A person who prefers to act independently rather than as part of a group.

werewolf:

A mythical human with the ability to shapeshift into a wolf.

wolfish:

Resembling, characteristic of, or having the qualities of a wolf.

Meaning: Someone who is very good at seducing or attracting partners, often associated with aggressive pursuit.

Example Sentence: He's such a wolf at parties, always surrounded by admirers.

Meaning: To wolf down food means to eat quickly and greedily.

Example Sentence: He wolfs down his dinner in just a few minutes.