shark
Translation
shark, swindler, predator
Examples
We saw a shark while scuba diving.
We saw a shark while scuba diving.
Be careful of loan sharks when you need money.
Be careful of loan sharks when you need money.
Grammar Patterns
a/the shark a large sea fish A shark swam under the boat.
a loan/card shark a person who cheats others, especially at cards or with money He is a notorious card shark.
Similar Words
Synonyms (figurative): predator, swindler, hustler
Etymology
Origin uncertain, but possibly from German 'Schurke' (scoundrel, villain), which fits the figurative meaning.
Memory Tips
Picture the sharp teeth of a shark. The word 'shark' sounds a bit sharp itself.