Definition

A person who searches for valuable minerals or gemstones in the ground, often in a casual or informal manner.

Example

The fossicker spent the weekend searching for gold in the riverbed.

Conversation

Have you ever met a real fossicker?

No, I haven't! What do they do exactly?

They search for valuable minerals and gems in the ground.

That sounds exciting! I'd love to try fossicking sometime.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Fossicker → The word 'fossicker' originates from the Australian English term 'fossick', which is derived from the Australian Aboriginal word 'fossick', meaning to search for gold or valuable minerals. The suffix '-er' indicates a person who performs the action. Therefore, a fossicker is a person who searches for valuable items, particularly in a casual or informal manner.

Memory Tip

Imagine someone searching for hidden treasures or valuable items, just like a fossicker does. The word comes from an Aboriginal term for searching, and the '-er' means it's a person who searches.

Visually Confused Words