verb
maraud
muh-RAWD/mɝˈɔd/
To roam in search of people or places to rob or attack.
The looters maraud through the market, stealing from one stall after another.
Etymology
French maraud meant “rascal” and gave rise to a verb for roaming in search of plunder. The English verb preserves that specific predatory activity, rather than merely describing someone as disreputable.
More examples
- Pirates marauded along the coast, searching for ships to attack.
- Marauding soldiers stole food and livestock from nearby farms.
- The gang continues to maraud through remote villages despite increased patrols.
Forms
maraud · marauds · marauded · marauding
marauder noun — A person who roams to rob or attack.