Definition

A person who searches for valuable minerals or oil in a specific area.

Example

The prospector spent months searching the mountains for gold.

Conversation

Have you ever thought about becoming a prospector?

Not really, but it sounds adventurous!

Yeah, exploring for hidden treasures must be exciting as a prospector.

Definitely! I can see the appeal of discovering something valuable.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Prospector → It is formed from "pro-" (meaning for or in favor of) and "spectare" (meaning to look or to see). A prospector is someone who looks for valuable minerals or resources, particularly in the context of mining.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who is 'looking for' ('spectare') something valuable 'for' ('pro-') themselves — that's why a prospector is someone who searches for resources.

Visually Confused Words