Definition

A person or animal that jumps or leaps onto something, often to catch or surprise it.

Example

The cat is a skilled pouncer, always ready to leap at its toy.

Conversation

Did you see that cat earlier?

Yeah, it was such a little pouncer!

I know, right? It just jumped out of nowhere.

Exactly! It surprised everyone at the park.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Pouncer is formed from "pounce" (from Middle English *pouncen*, meaning to leap or spring) and the suffix "-er" (meaning a person who). The word "pouncer" refers to a person or animal that leaps or springs at something, typically to catch it.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who 'leaps' ('pounce') to catch something — that's why a 'pouncer' is someone who jumps to grab.

Visually Confused Words