adventurer

noun

ad·​ven·​tur·​er əd-ˈven-ch(ə-)rər 

1

: someone who seeks dangerous or exciting experiences : a person who looks for adventures: such as

a

: soldier of fortune

b

: one who engages in risky commercial enterprises for profit

2

somewhat old-fashioned : one who seeks unmerited wealth or position especially by playing on the credulity or prejudice of others

Examples of adventurer in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

This has been a dangerous avalanche season for snow adventurers in the high Sierra. —Jack Dolan, Los Angeles Times, 18 Feb. 2026

Across four continents, his visionary quests as an entrepreneur, explorer, chieftain, and adventurer were all united by his lack of success. —Literary Hub, 17 Feb. 2026

Calling all outdoor adventurers! —Jamie Spain, Condé Nast Traveler, 17 Feb. 2026

Along for the ride will be fellow adventurers Eric Philips of Australia, Jannicke Mikkelsen of Norway and Rabea Rogge of Germany. —Richard Tribou, The Orlando Sentinel, 16 Feb. 2026

Word History

Etymology

adventure entry 1 or adventure entry 2 + -er entry 2, probably after Middle French aventurier, adventurier

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for adventurer

• venturer

Kids Definition

adventurer

noun

ad·​ven·​tur·​er əd-ˈvench-(ə-)rər 

1

: a person who looks for adventures

2

: a person who tries to become wealthy or powerful by trickery