raptor
UK: ˈræptə | US: ˈræptər
n. 1. A bird of prey, such as an eagle, hawk, or owl.
n. 2. (Informal) A velociraptor or other predatory dinosaur.
n. 3. (Archaic) A person who seizes or carries off by force.
raptor = rap<seize> + or<agent noun suffix>
- rap (from Latin rapere, meaning "to seize, snatch")
- or (Latin agent noun suffix, indicating "one who does something")
Etymology Origin:
The word raptor traces back to Latin raptor ("plunderer, thief"), derived from rapere ("to seize"). This reflects the predatory nature of birds of prey, which snatch their victims with talons. The term was later adopted in paleontology to describe agile, carnivorous dinosaurs like velociraptors, emphasizing their "seizing" hunting style. The dual usage—for ancient reptiles and modern birds—highlights evolutionary connections between theropod dinosaurs and avian species.
The eagle is a majestic raptor soaring above the mountains.
The museum exhibit featured a fossilized raptor with sharp claws.
Farmers often fear raptors preying on their livestock.
In Jurassic Park, the velociraptors were portrayed as highly intelligent hunters.
Medieval legends spoke of mythical raptors carrying off children.