Feral

Describing an animal that has escaped from domestication and returned to a wild state; or, by extension, a human exhibiting wild, untamed, and often aggressive behavior. This behavior typically manifests as a lack of social skills, a disregard for societal norms, and a tendency towards instinctive, survival-driven actions. The term often implies a sense of danger or unpredictability, stemming from a loss of the familiar control associated with domesticity or civilization. It suggests a return to a more primitive and less regulated existence.

Feral meaning with examples

• The stray dog, having lived on the streets for months, was now entirely feral. It snarled at anyone who approached, its instincts honed for survival in a harsh environment. Rescuers needed to use extreme caution, as the dog’s untamed nature made it a potential danger to itself and to others. Attempts to approach were met with wary eyes and snapping teeth, highlighting the animal's distrust of humans and the wild, uncontrolled state it had adopted.
• After being abandoned in the woods, the formerly pampered house cat quickly became feral. It hunted small creatures for sustenance, fiercely defending its territory against other animals. Its once soft fur became matted, and its eyes held a wildness that spoke of its complete separation from human care and a transformation into a skilled predator, relying solely on its instincts.
• The politician’s aggressive rhetoric and unsubstantiated accusations were described by some commentators as 'feral'. His public appearances seemed less like calculated speeches and more like outbursts of raw, uncontrolled emotion. His lack of decorum and disregard for facts, reflected a concerning shift towards a more unrestrained and impulsive style, abandoning the restraint expected of public figures.
• The children, having been left unsupervised for days, were behaving in a truly feral manner. Their house was a shambles, filled with the debris of a free for all. They scavenged for food and fought over the remaining supplies, completely ignoring the basics of personal hygiene. It was a terrifying depiction of untamed behaviour where societal rules had collapsed into a free-for-all of instinct.