Definition of the word vulture

The word "vulture" comes from the Latin word "vulturus," which is the past participle of "vulturare," meaning "to buzz" or "to hover." In Latin, the term referred specifically to the Eurasian black vulture (Aegypius monachus), which was known for its distinctive call and scavenging habits. The word "vulture" entered the English language in the 14th century, initially referring to the bird itself. Over time, the term took on a figurative meaning, describing a person who is opportunistic and waits for the death or failure of others to profit or benefit. This sense of the word is often used metaphorically to describe individuals who are perceived as being overly greedy or exploitative. In both its literal and figurative senses, the word "vulture" has retained its association with death, decay, and scavenging, reflecting the bird's role as a scavenger and its reputation as a symbol of mortality.