1. people who buy and use goods and services
Usage: economics; business
2. organisms that eat other organisms for energy
Usage: biology; ecology

Examples

• Consumers are demanding more environmentally friendly products.
• The new law protects consumers from unfair business practices.
• Companies study consumer behavior to improve their marketing strategies.
• Primary consumers in the food chain eat plants directly.
• Secondary consumers feed on primary consumers.
• Consumer spending drives much of the economy.
• The store offers discounts to attract more consumers.