adventurer

noun

ad·​ven·​tur·​er əd-ˈven-ch(ə-)rər How to pronounce adventurer (audio)
1
: someone who seeks dangerous or exciting experiences : a person who looks for adventures: such as
b
: one who engages in risky commercial enterprises for profit
2
somewhat old-fashioned : one who seeks unmerited wealth or position especially by playing on the credulity or prejudice of others

Examples of adventurer in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Equipped with a team of expert adventurers that are well-versed in the natural splendor of Chile, this local company offers a diverse array of expeditions that span from heart-racing volcano summits to forays into some of the region’s most idyllic natural oases. Jared Ranahan, Forbes, 10 Jan. 2025 The explanation for this alarming number of fatalities is in part the number of adventurers who attempt Mont Blanc’s peaks every year: about 20,000. Paul Hockenos, Smithsonian Magazine, 9 Jan. 2025 Having long dreamed of Antarctic expeditions, writer and adventurer Blair Braverman finally makes it to the White Continent—and gives herself up to a different way of traveling. Blair Braverman, Condé Nast Traveler, 24 Dec. 2024 The terrain in and near the park can be challenging in winter — serious ice climbers and winter hikers flock here for the steep cliffs and technical ascents — but plenty of local guides are ready to help less experienced adventurers. Sarah Cahalan, Travel + Leisure, 23 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for adventurer 

Word History

Etymology

adventure entry 1 or adventure entry 2 + -er entry 2, probably after Middle French aventurier, adventurier

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of adventurer was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near adventurer

Cite this Entry

“Adventurer.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/adventurer. Accessed 18 Jan. 2025.

Kids Definition

adventurer

noun
ad·​ven·​tur·​er əd-ˈvench-(ə-)rər How to pronounce adventurer (audio)
1
: a person who looks for adventures
2
: a person who tries to become wealthy or powerful by trickery
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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