Definition

Experiencing something through someone else's feelings or actions, rather than directly. For example, feeling excitement from watching a movie instead of doing the activity yourself.

Example

She felt a vicarious thrill while watching the adventure film.

Conversation

I love reading adventure books; they give me such a vicarious thrill.

I know what you mean! It's like living those experiences without leaving home.

Exactly! Sometimes I feel like I've climbed mountains just by reading about them.

Right? It's amazing how stories can make you feel so alive.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Vicarious → It is formed from "vicarius" (from Latin, meaning substitute or deputy) and the suffix "-ous" (meaning full of or having the quality of). The word "vicarious" describes experiencing something through someone else, as if one is a substitute for the actual experience.

Memory Tip

Think of 'substitute' ('vicarius') to remember that 'vicarious' means experiencing something through another person.

Visually Confused Words