pounced; pouncing
1
a
: to swoop upon and seize something with or as if with talons
The cat crouched and waited for the moment to pounce.
b
: to seize upon and make capital of something (such as another's blunder or an opportunity)
The press pounced on the mayor's ill-phrased remarks.
2
: to make a sudden assault or approach
… he could summon to his aid a company of goons ravenous to pounce on you …—Alexander Theroux
pounced; pouncing
: to dust, rub, finish, or stencil with pounce
1
: a fine powder formerly used to prevent ink from spreading
2
: a fine powder for making stenciled patterns
Cite this Entry
“Pounce.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pounce. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.
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