Tracker Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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tracker

[ˈtrækər ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

activity monitoring

A tracker is a device or software that monitors and records data related to a specific activity, such as steps taken, distance traveled, calories burned, or sleep patterns.

Synonyms

logger, monitor, recorder.

Examples of usage

  • A fitness tracker can help you keep track of your daily exercise routine.
  • The tracker showed that I walked 10,000 steps today.
  • She uses a sleep tracker to analyze her sleeping patterns.
Context #2 | Noun

person who follows or pursues

In a more informal context, a tracker can also refer to a person who follows or pursues someone or something, such as a tracker in the wilderness or a tracker of trends in the stock market.

Synonyms

follower, hunter, pursuer.

Examples of usage

  • The tracker led the group through the dense forest.
  • She is a tracker of fashion trends in the industry.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Technology

  • GPS trackers are used in various applications, such as navigation for vehicles, pets, and personal safety.
  • Fitness trackers, which monitor physical activity and health metrics, have gained immense popularity with the rise of health-consciousness.
  • Many modern smartphones come equipped with tracking capabilities, helping users navigate and find locations easily.

Pop Culture

  • In movies and television, trackers are often portrayed as skilled hunters or spies who follow leads to solve mysteries or secure objectives.
  • The character of 'Daryl Dixon' in 'The Walking Dead' is known for his expert tracking skills, combining survival and navigation in a post-apocalyptic world.
  • Tracking has also been a central theme in many video games where players follow quests using various tracking abilities.

Science

  • Scientists use animal trackers, like GPS collars, to study migration patterns and behavior of wildlife.
  • Tracking also plays a critical role in epidemiology, where disease tracking helps in understanding and controlling outbreaks.
  • In computer science, trackers may refer to software that monitors user behavior, such as cookies used for advertising purposes.

History

  • Indigenous cultures worldwide have long used tracking techniques for hunting and navigation, honing these skills over generations.
  • Historical espionage relied heavily on trackers to gather information about enemy movements without being detected.
  • In the early days of exploration, navigators used the stars and natural landmarks to track their journeys across uncharted territories.

Origin of 'tracker'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'tracker' comes from the verb 'to track,' which means to follow the footprints or path of something.
  • It's derived from the Old French word 'traquer,' meaning to chase or hunt.
  • The term gained popularity in the 19th century as people started using tracking methods in different fields, including hunting and navigation.

The word 'tracker' originated from the Middle English 'trakker,' which meant 'someone who tracks or hunts.' The term has evolved to encompass various meanings, including devices that monitor data and individuals who follow or pursue. Trackers have been used historically in hunting, navigation, and surveillance, and have now become prevalent in technology and personal health. The concept of tracking has adapted to modern contexts, reflecting advancements in data collection and analysis.


See also: backtrack, detractor, sidetrack, sidetracked, track, trackable, trackball, tracking, tracklist, tracks, trackway.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #23,266, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.