Meaning & Definition of word "Prowl"
Prowl
/praʊl/
noun:
- 1. An act of prowling; a stealthy, secretive movement.
- Example: There was a prowl of shadows near the abandoned building, making her uneasy.
verb:
- 1. To move around quietly and stealthily in search of something, often in a predatory manner.
- Example: The cat began to prowl through the tall grass, stalking its unsuspecting prey.
- 2. To roam or wander about in a sneaky or secretive manner.
- Example: He would often prowl the streets at night, looking for trouble.
- 3. To search or hunt stealthily.
- Example: The detective prowled the area, hoping to find clues about the missing person.
Etymology
●Middle English 'prule', of uncertain origin, possibly related to prow (to be ready, to move).
Common Phrases and Expressions
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.
Related Words
stalk:
To follow someone stealthily.
snoop:
To investigate or look around furtively.
Slang Meanings of prowl
Meaning: On the hunt
● Example Sentence: He's out on the prowl for a new car.
Meaning: Looking for romance
● Example Sentence: She's been on the prowl since she became single.