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Walker Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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walker

[ˈwɔːkər ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

person

A person who walks, especially for exercise or enjoyment.

Synonyms

hiker, pedestrian, rambler.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
walker

Use 'walker' to describe someone who walks, especially for exercise or leisure. It is a general term.

  • She is an avid walker and takes her dog on long walks every morning.
  • The park was filled with walkers enjoying the sunny weather.
hiker

Use 'hiker' to describe someone who walks long distances in nature, often on trails or paths through the countryside or mountains.

  • The hikers set off early to reach the mountain summit before noon.
  • He is an experienced hiker who has trekked across numerous national parks.
pedestrian

Use 'pedestrian' to describe someone who is walking, particularly in an urban environment. This term often contrasts with vehicles and traffic.

  • The city has made many improvements to increase pedestrian safety.
  • A pedestrian was crossing the street when the traffic light changed.
rambler

Use 'rambler' to describe someone who takes long walks for pleasure in the countryside. This term has a casual and leisurely connotation.

  • The ramblers enjoyed exploring the scenic trails and picturesque villages.
  • She joined a group of ramblers who met every weekend for countryside walks.

Examples of usage

  • He's a keen walker and enjoys long hikes in the mountains.
  • She's been a regular walker since she retired.
Context #2 | Noun

device

A frame designed to be fitted to the foot and used for walking.

Synonyms

walking frame, zimmer frame.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
walker

Used generally to refer to a supportive frame or person who assists in walking, commonly applied for elderly or disabled individuals.

  • She uses a walker to move around the house easily
  • The nurse brought the walker to help him get to the bathroom
walking frame

A more formal term, often used in medical or professional settings to describe a metal frame that helps a person walk.

  • The physiotherapist recommended getting a walking frame to assist her after surgery
  • He was provided with a walking frame during his physical therapy sessions
zimmer frame

Primarily used in the UK, this term specifically refers to a brand name that has become genericized. Used similarly to 'walker'.

  • After the accident, she needed a zimmer frame to get around
  • He struggled with balance until he started using a zimmer frame

Examples of usage

  • She uses a walker to help her get around since her surgery.
  • The elderly man relies on his walker for support while walking.
Context #3 | Noun

occupation

A person employed to walk around an area or building to maintain security.

Synonyms

patrol officer, security guard.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
walker

This is the same as the first entry; can also refer to a device used by people with mobility issues, though less commonly in general contexts.

  • He needed a walker to help him move around after his surgery
  • She bought a fancy walker for her daily exercise routines
security guard

Appropriate for someone employed to protect property and people, often working in places like shopping malls, offices, or event venues.

  • The security guard checked the IDs of everyone entering the building
  • They hired extra security guards for the concert to ensure the safety of the attendees
patrol officer

Suitable for referring to a law enforcement officer who patrols an assigned area to maintain peace and ensure safety.

  • The patrol officer made his rounds every night to ensure the neighborhood was secure
  • The presence of patrol officers has decreased the crime rate in the area

Examples of usage

  • The night shift includes a walker who patrols the premises.
  • The mall security team consists of several walkers to ensure safety.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

  • The term 'walker' gained new meaning with popular TV shows and movies featuring zombies, where 'walkers' are the undead that roam for brains.
  • In fitness culture, 'power walking' has become a popular form of exercise, emphasizing speed and technique in strolling.

Health

  • Walking is considered one of the best forms of exercise for people of all ages, improving cardiovascular health and maintaining physical fitness.
  • Studies show that regular walkers can reduce their risk of chronic diseases and enhance mental well-being.

Literature

  • Famous literary works often feature characters who are 'walkers' of the world, like the protagonist in 'The Alchemist' who walks on a journey of discovery.
  • In poetry, walking is often used as a metaphor for life's journey, symbolizing exploration and self-discovery.

Technology

  • With the advancement of tech, the term 'walker' is also being used to describe robotic devices and AI models designed to mimic human walking.
  • Wearable technology, like fitness trackers, has popularized counting steps and has encouraged many to embrace the walking lifestyle.

Origin of 'walker'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'walker' comes from the Old English 'wealca', which means 'to walk around.'
  • In medieval times, 'walker' referred not only to pedestrians but also to those who worked in cloth-making by walking on damp cloth to thicken it.

The word 'walker' originated from the Middle English word 'walkere', which meant 'a person who walks'. Over time, the term evolved to encompass various meanings related to walking, from a person who walks for exercise to a device used for support. The occupation of a security guard patrolling an area also became known as a 'walker' due to the act of walking around to maintain security.

See also: walk, walkers, walking, walkout, walkway, walkways.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,630, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.