Hitchhiker Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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hitchhiker
[หhษชtสหhaษชkษr ]
Definition
traveling by car
A hitchhiker is a person who travels by getting free rides from passing vehicles. Often, they stand by the side of the road with their thumb raised to signal that they are looking for a lift. This practice is common among travelers seeking adventure or those trying to save money on transportation.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The hitchhiker waited for hours before a car finally stopped.
- He picked up a hitchhiker on his way to the city.
- Many hitchhikers have interesting stories to share from their travels.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Historical Context
- The Great Depression saw a rise in hitchhiking as people sought cheap travel options to find work.
- In the 1970s, hitchhiking became a cultural symbol of freedom, particularly among young travelers and road trippers.
- Some countries have designated hitchhiking spots, creating an infrastructure to support this form of travel.
Pop Culture
- The 'Hitchhikerโs Guide to the Galaxy' is a famous science fiction series that playfully explores intergalactic travel and the life of a hitchhiker.
- Hitchhiking features in various films and literature, often highlighting themes of adventure and social connection.
- In urban culture, hitchhikers have been depicted as explorers or vagabonds, representing a break from conventional life.
Safety and Ethics
- While hitchhiking can be a cost-effective way to travel, it carries safety risks, and many regions have seen declines in its popularity for this reason.
- Some countries and states have laws that regulate or limit hitchhiking to ensure the safety of travelers.
- Experienced hitchhikers often share tips about choosing safe spots to ask for rides and how to communicate effectively with drivers.
Travel Tips
- Hitchhikers often use signs with their desired destinations to increase their chances of getting a ride.
- It is common for hitchhikers to travel light, carrying only essential items in small backpacks to avoid inconveniencing potential drivers.
- Building rapport quickly is key; a friendly demeanor can make a driver feel more comfortable offering a ride.
Origin of 'hitchhiker'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'hitchhike' combines 'hitch,' meaning to catch on to something, and 'hike,' referring to walking or traveling.
- It first appeared in print in the 1920s, initially used in the context of ride-sharing.
- The word reflects the practice of hitching one's thumb out to signal drivers for a ride.
The word 'hitchhiker' combines 'hitch', originally meaning 'to fasten or attach', and 'hike', referring to walking or traveling. Its modern usage began to surface in the early 20th century in the United States, particularly during the Great Depression when many people resorted to hitchhiking as a means of cost-effective transportation. The phenomenon gained popularity as a symbol of freedom and adventure, especially among young travelers and those seeking economic opportunities. By the mid-20th century, hitchhiking was widely recognized in popular culture, often depicted in movies and literature as a method of spontaneous travel. Despite its decline in some areas due to safety concerns, hitchhiking remains a recognizable term today, symbolizing a unique way of connecting with others on the road.