Prowl

/praʊl/

Meaning & Definition

noun

An act of prowling; a stealthy, secretive movement.

There was a prowl of shadows near the abandoned building, making her uneasy.

verb

To move around quietly and stealthily in search of something, often in a predatory manner.

The cat began to prowl through the tall grass, stalking its unsuspecting prey.

To roam or wander about in a sneaky or secretive manner.

He would often prowl the streets at night, looking for trouble.

To search or hunt stealthily.

The detective prowled the area, hoping to find clues about the missing person.

Middle English 'prule', of uncertain origin, possibly related to prow (to be ready, to move).

prowl the streets

To walk around city areas stealthily, often implying searching for something or someone.

on the prowl

Searching actively for something; often associated with seeking companionship.

prowl around

To move quietly in a particular area, often for an undisclosed purpose.

stalk

To follow someone stealthily.

snoop

To investigate or look around furtively.

On the hunt

He's out on the prowl for a new car.

Looking for romance

She's been on the prowl since she became single.