Definition

A person or animal that eats the flesh of others of the same species, especially humans.

Example

In some ancient cultures, cannibals were believed to gain strength from consuming their enemies.

Conversation

Did you hear about that movie featuring a cannibal?

Yeah, I can't believe people actually make films about that stuff.

Right? It's kind of creepy to think about a real-life cannibal story.

Totally! I prefer sticking to comedies instead.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Cannibal comes from the Spanish word 'caníbal', which is derived from 'Carib', referring to the Carib people of the Caribbean known for their alleged practice of cannibalism. The term originally meant a person who eats human flesh.

Memory Tip

Think of the Carib people, who were associated with the practice of eating human flesh, to remember that a cannibal is someone who consumes other humans.

Visually Confused Words