Definition

A person who participates in a violent public disturbance or protest, often involving a crowd acting in a disorderly manner.

Example

The police arrested several rioters after the protest turned violent.

Conversation

Did you see the news about the protest downtown?

Yeah, I heard it got out of hand with a few rioters causing chaos.

That's so disappointing to hear; protests should be peaceful.

Exactly! It's a shame when a few rioters ruin it for everyone.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Rioter → It is formed from "riot" (from Old French *riote*, meaning a noisy quarrel or disturbance) and "-er" (meaning a person who). A rioter is a person who participates in a noisy disturbance or public disorder.

Memory Tip

Think of someone involved in a 'noisy quarrel' ('riot') — the '-er' just means a person. A rioter is someone who causes or takes part in a disturbance.

Visually Confused Words