pounce
UK: paʊns | US: paʊns
v. to suddenly leap or spring forward, especially to attack or seize something
n. a sudden swooping or springing movement
The word "pounce" originates from the Old French poinçonner ("to pierce"), derived from poinçon ("stylus" or "pointed tool"). Over time, it evolved to describe the swift, sharp motion of a bird of prey striking its target. The morpheme poun reflects the action of thrusting or striking, while the suffix -ce (common in verb formations) completes the word's modern sense of a sudden, aggressive movement.
The cat waited silently before it pounced on the mouse.
Eagles pounce with incredible speed to catch their prey.
She pounced on the opportunity to lead the project.
The boxer pounced as soon as his opponent dropped his guard.
A sudden noise made the rabbit pounce away into the bushes.