prowler

[ prou-ler ]

noun

1. a person or animal that prowls.
2. a person who goes stealthily about with some unlawful intention, as to commit a burglary or theft.

Word History and Origins

Origin of prowler¹

First recorded in 1510–20; prowl + -er ¹

Example Sentences

The two Sangamon County sheriff's deputies were responding to a 911 call by Massey, who had reported a "prowler" at her home in Springfield, Illinois, according to a court document.

From Salon

In a three-day span last year, police responded to reports of an assault with a deadly weapon, a prowler, a burglary and a disturbance.

From Los Angeles Times

Rant to apps, cameras and social media sites that only incite fear and loathing, where every loud bang is a “gunshot” and every lost delivery driver a “prowler.”

From Seattle Times

On the contrary, he makes her eggs and gives the prowler a jump.

From New York Times

We had a costume designer very quickly build this prowler costume.

From Los Angeles Times