Carnivorous

/kɑːrˈnɪvərəs/

Meaning & Definition

adjective
feeding on other animals; flesh-eating.
Lions are carnivorous predators that primarily hunt large herbivores.
relating to or characteristic of an organism that primarily consumes meat.
Many carnivorous plants, such as the Venus flytrap, have evolved to digest insects for nutrients.
having the nature or behavior of a flesh-eater.
The documentary explored the lives of various carnivorous creatures in the wild.
of, relating to, or characteristic of a diet that consists mainly of meat.
Humans are not strictly carnivorous, as we also consume fruits and vegetables.

Etymology

From Latin 'carnivorus', where 'caro' means flesh and 'vorare' means to devour.

Common Phrases and Expressions

Top of the food chain:
Describes organisms that are predators without natural enemies.
Carnivorous plant:
A plant that derives some or most of its nutrients from trapping and consuming animals.

Related Words

Slang Meanings

Used to describe someone with a strong appetite for meat.
He's such a carnivorous eater; he could live on steak alone.
Referring to a particularly aggressive or dominant personality.
Her carnivorous attitude in the boardroom often intimidates others.