prey, to prey on

Definition:

The term "prey" refers to something that is hunted, usually an animal that is used for food.

In a figurative sense, "prey" can refer to a person who is taken advantage of, abused, or oppressed by a more powerful person.
To "prey on" people means to take advantage of them by oppressing them or stealing something from them.
The term "prey" could also be translated as "hunted animal" or "hunted one" or "victim."