Definition

A person who travels by getting rides from strangers in their vehicles, usually by standing at the side of the road and signaling for help.

Example

The hitcher stood by the roadside, hoping for a car to stop and give him a ride.

Conversation

Did you see that hitcher by the side of the road yesterday?

Yeah, I did! I wonder if they got a ride.

I hope they did; it's not safe to wait for too long.

Definitely! I used to hitchhike a bit when I was younger.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Hitcher → The word 'hitcher' is formed from 'hitch' (of uncertain origin, possibly from Middle English 'hycche', meaning to move or pull) and the suffix '-er' (meaning a person who performs an action). A hitcher is a person who moves or pulls, often referring to someone who solicits a ride from passing vehicles.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who is 'pulling' or 'moving' to get a ride — that's why a hitcher is someone looking for a lift.

Visually Confused Words