rôder

to prowl, to lurk

verb roh-DEH Rare

Usage Note

Rôder describes moving around suspiciously or without a clear purpose, often with a menacing connotation. The agent noun rôdeur (m) means 'prowler'. It differs from errer (to wander aimlessly) by implying intent or watchfulness; un rôdeur rôde autour de la maison is a common type of phrase in crime reporting.

Examples

"Un inconnu rôdait autour de l'immeuble."

Natural Translation

A stranger was prowling around the building.

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