Voyager Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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voyager

[ˈvɔɪ.ə.dʒər ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

space exploration

A person who goes on a long journey, especially one into space.

Synonyms

adventurer, explorer, pioneer.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
voyager

This word is best used when referring to someone who travels on a journey, especially by sea or in space, without necessarily implying discovery. It can have a poetic or romantic tone.

  • The ancient voyagers braved the seas without modern navigation tools.
  • As a voyager, she felt an unquenchable thirst for seeing new oceans.
explorer

This word fits well when talking about someone who investigates unknown regions, often with the goal of discovery and mapping new territories. It has a more scientific or factual connotation.

  • The explorers charted the uncharted parts of the Amazon rainforest.
  • As an explorer, she uncovered many ancient ruins in her lifetime.
adventurer

Use this word to describe someone who seeks excitement and novel experiences, often facing risks and challenges. It can imply a love for daring activities.

  • He was an adventurer at heart, always looking for the next thrilling exploit.
  • The adventurers set out on a quest to find the hidden treasure.
pioneer

Pioneer is suitable for describing someone who is among the first to enter or settle a region, or someone who leads the way in developing new areas of knowledge or activity.

  • The pioneers of the American West faced many hardships and challenges.
  • She is a pioneer in the field of genetic research.

Examples of usage

  • The voyager embarked on a mission to explore distant galaxies.
  • She always dreamed of becoming a voyager and discovering new worlds.
  • The voyager gazed at the stars in awe of the vastness of the universe.
Context #2 | Noun

history

A ship or aircraft that is used for traveling long distances.

Synonyms

craft, ship, vessel.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
voyager

Appropriate for describing a person who travels, especially to distant or unknown places.

  • The legendary voyager sailed across the seas to explore new lands
  • She is a modern-day voyager, always looking for new adventures
ship

Commonly used for larger vessels meant for travel or transport over water. It usually implies a significant size and capacity.

  • The cargo ship set sail for the distant port
  • The cruise ship offers luxurious amenities for its passengers
vessel

A broad term that can refer to any type of boat or ship, often used in formal or technical contexts.

  • The research vessel is equipped with the latest technology
  • All vessels must adhere to maritime regulations
craft

Best used to refer to a vessel or vehicle made for specific purposes, often implying a smaller size or specialized function.

  • The fishing craft returned to the harbor with a plentiful catch
  • The search and rescue craft were deployed immediately

Examples of usage

  • The voyager set sail across the ocean to unknown lands.
  • The ancient voyagers braved the seas in search of new trade routes.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The term 'voyager' comes from the French word 'voyager,' meaning 'to travel' or 'to journey.'
  • In the late 15th century, explorers known as voyagers traveled across uncharted waters in search of new lands, often for trade or discovery.
  • The famous explorer Jacques Cartier is known as one of the first French voyagers to explore the North American territories.

Science

  • NASA launched the Voyager 1 and Voyager 2 spacecraft in 1977 to study the outer planets and now they are traveling through interstellar space.
  • Voyager probes have provided humanity with the first detailed images and data of planets like Jupiter and Saturn.
  • Voyager 1 also carries the Golden Record, a time capsule containing sounds and images to showcase the diversity of life on Earth.

Literature

  • In literature, voyagers often symbolize the quest for knowledge and personal growth through exploration.
  • The journey motif in novels, such as Homer's 'The Odyssey,' highlights the adventures and challenges faced by voyagers.
  • A classic example of a voyager character is Captain Ahab from 'Moby-Dick,' who is driven by obsession on his quest.

Pop Culture

  • The term has been popularized in movies and TV shows, portraying characters who embark on great journeys, like the crew of 'Star Trek: Voyager.'
  • Voyager 1 became a cultural icon, inspiring various forms of art, music, and even video games centered around space exploration.
  • In games, the term is often used to describe characters or entities that explore unknown worlds, adding to the adventurous theme.

Psychology

  • The concept of being a voyager resonates in psychology, where exploration is linked to self-discovery and personal development.
  • Traveling can enhance creativity, as seen in studies showing that people who travel are often more open-minded due to their exposure to different cultures.
  • Metaphorically, being a 'voyager' in life encourages resilience and adaptability when facing the unknown.

Origin of 'voyager'

The word 'voyager' originated from the Old French word 'voiageour', which meant a traveler or one who goes on a journey. It has been used in English since the 14th century to refer to individuals who embark on long journeys, especially by sea. The concept of voyaging has been integral to human history, from the early explorers who discovered new lands to the modern space voyagers who venture into the cosmos. The term 'voyager' embodies the spirit of adventure, discovery, and curiosity that drive humans to explore the unknown.


See also: voyages, voyaging.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #31,084 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.