What does prowl mean?
Prow means to move about quietly and secretly, usually while searching for something, watching for danger, or looking for prey. People use it for animals such as cats, wolves, and dogs, as well as for people who move furtively through a place. The phrase 'on the prowl' describes someone who is actively searching or wandering with a concealed purpose, often with a sense of menace or opportunism. In everyday conversation, the word suggests movement that is stealthy and purposeful rather than simply casual. The related noun, a prowl, names such an act or period of secret movement. Although prow is related in origin to words connected with testing and examining, such as probe and prove, its modern meaning is specifically associated with furtive movement.
To move about stealthily, especially while searching for something, watching for prey, or trying to avoid notice.
"The thief prowled the empty parking lot looking for an unlocked car."
Commonly used with 'around' or with a place as its object. It can imply either predatory behavior or furtive human activity.
An act or period of moving about stealthily or searching in a furtive manner.
"The dogs caught the scent and began their prowl through the woods."
The noun is often used in the expression 'on the prowl.'
The plural is uncommon; the noun is most often used in the fixed phrase 'on the prowl.'
"The night was filled with the sounds of prowls through the bushes."
A prowling cat is a familiar sight: quiet paws, watchful eyes, and a trail of patient suspense.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of prowl
The word comes through Middle English from Old French, with roots ultimately in Latin. Its development is connected with the Latin verb probare, meaning to test or examine, which is also the source of related English words such as probe, prove, and probable. Over time, the meaning developed toward searching or investigating and then toward moving about stealthily in search of something.
Related word forms
How prowl is actually used
The verb is usually used with a place, area, or object as its object: 'prow the neighborhood,' 'prowl around the building.' It can describe people as well as animals, often with the implication of furtive or threatening behavior. The noun is less common and usually appears in phrases such as 'on the prowl.'
Easily confused with prowl
Prowling generally implies moving stealthily while searching or stalking, whereas sprawling or pawing often suggests moving or crawling in a more sprawling, undignified manner.