Definition

A person who travels by getting rides from strangers in their vehicles instead of using public transport or their own car.

Example

The hitchhiker stood by the side of the road, hoping someone would stop to give him a ride.

Conversation

Did you hear about the hitchhiker who made it across the country in just a week?

No way, that's impressive! How did they do it?

They said they met some really cool people along the way.

I guess that’s the adventure of being a hitchhiker!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Hitchhiker → It is formed from "hitch" (from Old English *hycgan*, meaning to fasten or attach) and "hiker" (from "hike", meaning to walk or travel). The word describes a person who travels by getting rides from passing vehicles, essentially attaching themselves to the journey of others.

Memory Tip

Think of someone 'attaching' themselves ('hitch') to a ride while 'walking' or 'traveling' ('hiker') — that's what a hitchhiker does.

Visually Confused Words