"acechador" is a masculine noun in Spanish.
/aseˈt͡ʃaðoɾ/
The term "acechador" refers to an individual who stalks or spies on someone, often with malicious intent. In a broader sense, it can indicate someone who observes secretly without the knowledge of the person being watched. The word is used in various contexts, such as criminal activity, or can have metaphorical implications in other areas of life.
The term is less common in everyday conversation compared to other words but is still used in both oral and written contexts, particularly in literature, media, and discussions about crime or behavior.
The stalker was caught by the police after weeks of surveillance.
Ella sentía que un acechador la seguía cada vez que salía sola por la noche.
She felt that a stalker was following her every time she went out alone at night.
La novela cuenta la historia de un acechador que se obsesiona con su vecino.
While "acechador" does not have many direct idiomatic expressions, it can be part of phrases that discuss vigilance or hidden observation. Here are some related idiomatic contexts:
"It is better to keep the stalker at a distance if you don't want any trouble."
Vivir con un acechador
"It is distressing to live with a stalker who doesn't leave you alone."
Ser un acechador furtivo
The word "acechador" derives from the Spanish verb "acechar," which means "to stalk" or "to watch closely." This verb itself comes from the Latin "adsectāre," which translates to "to follow after" or "to pursue."
In sum, "acechador" encompasses a significant emotional and situational weight in the Spanish language, often associated with negative attributes of hidden observation and intrusive behavior.