carnivorous
Tigers are carnivorous animals that hunt for their food.
This example shows that tigers are meat-eaters by nature.
relating to or feeding on meat
Lions are carnivorous predators that rely on hunting.
This describes lions as animals that eat meat.
The carnivorous diet of wolves includes deer and rabbits.
This shows what wolves typically eat as meat-eaters.
Often used in biology and zoology to describe animals that primarily consume meat.
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Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Usage in Biology
In scientific contexts, 'carnivorous' specifically refers to organisms that eat meat.
Gold Rule
Avoid Overgeneralization
Do not use 'carnivorous' for omnivores unless specifying their meat-eating habits.
Word Origin
From Latin 'carnivorus', from 'caro' (flesh) + 'vorare' (to devour).
Usage Notes
Can also describe plants that trap and digest insects, though this is less common.