Definition

A person who engages in risky or speculative activities, especially in drilling for oil or mining in areas that are not proven to be productive.

Example

The wildcatter took a chance on drilling in an untested area, hoping to strike oil.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of a wildcatter in the oil industry?

Yeah, they're the ones taking big risks to find new oil fields, right?

Exactly! It's pretty fascinating how they work in unproven areas.

True, but it must be stressful not knowing if they'll strike it rich or fail.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Wildcatter → The word is formed from "wild" (from Old English *wild*, meaning untamed or uncontrolled) and "catter" (from the verb "to cater", which in this context refers to someone who seeks or pursues). A wildcatter is someone who seeks untamed or unproven oil or gas reserves, often in risky ventures.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who is 'seeking' ('catter') resources in 'untamed' ('wild') areas — that's what a wildcatter does.

Visually Confused Words