pouncing
Springing upon prey
Pouncing is the act of springing or swooping suddenly to seize something.
A cat pounces on a mouse; a hawk pounces on prey.
Figuratively, to pounce is to seize any opportunity quickly: She pounced on the job offer, Critics pounced on his mistake.
The word suggests predatory quickness—waiting, then striking.
Surprise strike from concealment
- lungeSudden forward movement
- springRecoiling metal spiral
- leapSudden springing movement
- stalkPlant's vertical support
prey · hunt · strike · swoop · capture · predator · crouch · paws
ambush
Surprise strike from concealment
stalk · prey · hunt · strike · swoop · capture · predator · crouch · paws · claws
grasp
Seize or understand
grip · nab · catch · tackle · pin · trap · ensnare · hook · net · snag
jump
Propel oneself airborne
- capitalizeMake a letter large
- exploitNotable act or abuse
- seizeTake suddenly, forcibly
react · anticipate · timing · alert · ready · eager · swift · decisive · moment · chance
- animal behaviorsswimming, running, walking, jumping, flying
- cat playchasing, stalking, swatting, batting, jumping
- lively motionsbouncing, bounding, darting, dashing, frolicking
- locomotionwalking, running, crawling, swimming, flying
- pet behaviortail wagging, purring, kneading, growling, hissing
- predator traitssharp teeth, sharp claws, fangs, claws, talons
pouncingcreeping
Moving slowly, stealthily
retreating · withdrawing · slinking · tiptoeing · inching
pouncingstalking
Stealthy, persistent pursuit
lurking · waiting · lying in wait · watching · tracking
pouncingfleeing
Rapid escape from danger
retreating · escaping · releasing · letting go · backing away