Definition

A person who jumps from an aircraft with a parachute, usually for sport or recreation.

Example

The experienced parachutist performed an impressive freefall before opening the parachute.

Conversation

Did you see that parachutist jump from the plane yesterday?

Yeah, it looked amazing! I can't believe how brave they are.

I always thought it would be thrilling to be a parachutist.

Me too! It must be such an adrenaline rush.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Parachutist → It is formed from "para-" (meaning alongside or beyond) and "chute" (from French *chute*, meaning fall) and "-ist" (meaning one who practices or is concerned with). The word describes a person who engages in the activity of falling from the sky using a parachute.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who falls 'alongside' ('para-') the ground using a 'fall' ('chute') device — that's what a parachutist does.

Visually Confused Words