bottom-feeder

noun

bot·​tom-feed·​er ˈbä-təm-ˌfē-dər How to pronounce bottom-feeder (audio)
Synonyms of bottom-feedernext
1
: a fish that feeds at the bottom
2
: one that is of the lowest status or rank
3
: an opportunist who seeks quick profit usually at the expense of others or from their misfortune
bottom-feeding
ˈbä-təm-ˌfē-diŋ How to pronounce bottom-feeder (audio)
adjective

Synonyms of bottom-feeder

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Examples of bottom-feeder in a Sentence

that bottom-feeder would run over his own mother if it would help him get ahead in his career
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Use worms fished right on the bottom to entice the subtle-striking bottom-feeders. — Chad Mason, Outdoor Life, 3 June 2026 These sharks are thought to be bottom-feeders, preying on fish that frequent the floors of rivers and estuaries. — John P. Rafferty, Encyclopedia Britannica, 13 Mar. 2026 Games against real teams will reveal far more about the Magic’s mindset than any blowout over a bottom-feeder. — Mike Bianchi, The Orlando Sentinel, 21 Feb. 2026 The best teams tend to use their resources wisely, while the bottom-feeders usually have reckless spending habits. — Mat Issa, Forbes.com, 31 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for bottom-feeder

Word History

First Known Use

1851, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of bottom-feeder was in 1851

Rhymes for bottom-feeder

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Browse Nearby Words

bottomer
bottom-feeder
bottom fermentation
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Cite this Entry

“Bottom-feeder.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/bottom-feeder. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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