“Maneater” by Hall & Oates is one of the duo’s biggest hits, released in 1982 on their album H2O. The song’s lyrics paint a picture of a dangerous, alluring woman who preys on men. While it seems like a straightforward warning about a femme fatale, the meaning runs deeper.
This article breaks down the lyrics to “Maneater,” exploring both the surface meaning and the hidden layers behind the words. Is it really about a woman, or is there something more?
“Maneater” Lyrics Meaning: Line by Line
Verse 1: A Dangerous Presence
She’ll only come out at night
The lean and hungry type
Right away, the lyrics introduce a mysterious, predatory figure. She operates in the shadows, emerging only when it suits her.
“Lean and hungry” suggests a constant need—whether for power, money, or something else.
Nothing is new
I’ve seen her here before
This isn’t the first time this type of person has appeared. The pattern is familiar, and it’s clear that others have fallen for the same trap before.
Watching and waiting
Ooh, she’s sitting with you, but her eyes are on the door
She isn’t interested in whoever she’s with. Her focus is elsewhere, always searching for something better. This adds to the idea that she’s driven by ambition or greed, rather than love or connection.
So many have paid to see what you think you’re getting for free
The illusion of something valuable is at play. People believe they’re special, but in reality, they’re just another target.
The woman is wild, a she-cat tamed by the purr of a Jaguar
This line plays with contrasts—she’s untamed but controlled by luxury or material things.
“Jaguar” could refer to the luxury car, symbolizing wealth and status as the only things that can influence her.
Money’s the matter
If you’re in it for love, you ain’t gonna get too far
This is the song’s clearest statement about her motives. Love means nothing to her—money and status are what drive her actions.
Chorus: The Warning
Oh, here she comes
Watch out, boy, she’ll chew you up
The chorus is a warning. She isn’t just dangerous—she completely consumes those who get too close.
The word “chew” suggests she uses people until there’s nothing left.
Oh, here she comes
She’s a maneater
Calling her a “maneater” reinforces the idea that she devours men emotionally, financially, or even symbolically.
Verse 2: The Cost of Falling for Her
I wouldn’t if I were you
I know what she can do
Someone who’s seen it all before is giving advice: stay away.
She’s deadly, man
She could really rip your world apart
The consequences of falling for her aren’t minor. She has the power to destroy lives, whether by breaking hearts or ruining people financially.
Mind over matter
Ooh, the beauty is there but a beast is in the heart
On the outside, she looks appealing, but inside, she’s ruthless. The contrast between beauty and beastliness highlights her deceptive nature.
“Maneater” Song Meaning: More Than Just a Femme Fatale
At first glance, “Maneater” seems to be about a woman who manipulates and takes advantage of men. But the song may also be a metaphor for something bigger—greed and excess in the 1980s. The lyrics describe a person who prioritizes money and power over love, reflecting a culture obsessed with wealth and status.
Hall & Oates have even suggested that the song was inspired by the atmosphere of New York City at the time. It wasn’t just about one person—it was about a mindset, a way of life where ambition ruled above all else.
Songs Like “Maneater”
If you like “Maneater,” here are some other songs with similar themes:
1. “Sweet But Psycho” by Ava Max
“Sweet But Psycho” tells the story of a woman who is both irresistible and dangerous. Like “Maneater,” it plays with the idea of someone who lures others in but comes with a warning label.
2. “Material Girl” by Madonna
“Material Girl” embraces the theme of wealth-driven attraction, much like “Maneater.” While Madonna’s song is more playful, both tracks highlight how money and status can dictate relationships.
Related: Best Songs with “Girl” in the Title
3. “You’re So Vain” by Carly Simon
This classic song calls out a self-absorbed individual who uses others for personal gain. While “Maneater” is about a woman’s manipulation, “You’re So Vain” focuses on a man who behaves in a similar way.
Conclusion: A Warning About Greed and Power
“Maneater” isn’t just about a woman who uses men—it’s about a culture that values power and money over real connections. Whether taken literally or as a metaphor for the greed of the ’80s, the song serves as a warning.
In the end, those chasing wealth and status may find themselves consumed, just like the men in the song.
You can listen to “Maneater” on Spotify and Amazon.
Be sure to check out more of our Song Meanings articles!