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.
With his distinctive striped coat and bright, curious eyes, Gizmo is the epitome of a little adventurer. The Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, arkansasonline.com, 16 Feb. 2025 Along for the ride will be fellow adventurers Eric Philips of Australia, Jannicke Mikkelsen of Norway and Rabea Rogge of Germany. Richard Tribou, Orlando Sentinel, 15 Feb. 2025 The Goonies starred Sean Astin, Ke Huy Quan, Corey Feldman, and Jeff Cohen as the primary group of young adventurers, with Josh Brolin, Martha Plimpton, and Kerri Green accompanying them on their perilous quest. Wesley Stenzel, EW.com, 14 Feb. 2025 In an age where technology has made much of the world accessible, the Explorers Club stands as a testament to the enduring allure of the unknown, where billionaires, astronauts, scientists, and adventurers come together to celebrate the spirit of exploration. Dan Perry, Newsweek, 13 Feb. 2025 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

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Cite this Entry

“Adventurer.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/adventurer. Accessed 28 Feb. 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

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