hunter

noun

hunt·​er ˈhən-tər 

1

a

: a person who hunts game

b

: a dog used or trained for hunting

c

: a horse used or adapted for use in hunting with hounds

especially : a fast strong horse trained for cross-country work and jumping

2

: one that searches for something

3

: a pocket watch with a hinged protective cover

Synonyms of hunter

• archer
• huntsman
• falconer

Examples of hunter in a Sentence

hunters must have a license to shoot deer

Recent Examples on the Web

Adult ladybugs are most known for eating aphids, but the various species are ferocious hunters of varied prey. — Beth Botts, Chicago Tribune, 18 July 2026

In the end, 172 permits were allocated to hunters, who killed 52 bears in December, according to the FWC’s website. — David Goodhue, Miami Herald, 18 July 2026

Ochre figures of hunters, eland, and dancing shamans come into focus. — Sarah Kingdom, Forbes.com, 17 July 2026

Eclipse hunters should prioritize a clear line of sight to the west-northwest, rather than elevation or traditionally beautiful scenery. — Catherine Tansey, Condé Nast Traveler, 17 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing hunter

• anti-hunter
• bounty hunter
• fortune hunter
• head-hunter
• hunter-gatherer
• hunter green
• white hunter

Rhymes for hunter

• bunter
• punter

Kids Definition

hunter

noun

hunt·​er ˈhənt-ər 

1

: a person who hunts

especially : one who hunts game

2

: a dog or horse used or trained for hunting

Geographical Definition

Hunter

geographical name

Hun·​ter ˈhən-tər 

river 287 miles (462 kilometers) long in eastern New South Wales, southeastern Australia, flowing east into the Pacific

Biographical Definition

Hunter

biographical name

Hun·​ter ˈhən-tər 

John 1728–1793 British anatomist and surgeon