Be/fall prey to something Definition 1 of 3Pro Tip 1/3Negative Circumstances Used when someone can't control a bad situation affecting them. Due to the economic downturn, he fell prey to unemployment. Pro Tip 2/3Figurative Use The phrase doesn't mean literal hunting prey; it's used metaphorically. Without proper planning, you might fall prey to severe stress. Pro Tip 3/3Unexpected Change Refers to sudden or unforeseeable negative changes or events. They fell prey to the changing weather during the hike.