thrill-seeker
THRILL-see-ker
/ˈθrɪlˌsiːkər/
A person who is eager to take part in exciting activities, especially those involving physical risk.
Implies a deliberate search for intense physical sensations, such as adrenaline rushes from extreme rides or sports.
The story behind the word. A modern 20th-century compound of thrill (from Middle English thrilen, meaning to pierce or penetrate with excitement) and seeker (one who searches).
Word relationships
- daredevil: Daredevil implies a reckless person who performs dangerous stunts, whereas thrill-seeker simply enjoys high-excitement activities like roller coasters.
- homebody: Homebody prefers the safety and quiet of home over any exciting or risky activities.
Commonly confused with
- adventurer: An adventurer travels to explore unknown territories, whereas a thrill-seeker specifically chases intense physical sensations.
Word family
- thrill-seekers (noun): plural of thrill-seeker
Collocations
- ultimate thrill-seeker
- thrill-seeker's paradise
- attract thrill-seekers
- adventurous thrill-seeker
Example sentences
- "The extreme, record-breaking drop tower is designed specifically to appeal to the ultimate thrill-seeker." Targeting park marketing
- "As a lifelong thrill-seeker, she has tried skydiving, bungee jumping, and every major roller coaster in the country." Describing a friend's personality
Memory hook
A seeker who hunts for the thrill of the chase. Hunting for the ultimate rush.
When not to use
Do not use for someone who simply enjoys casual travel or mild outdoor activities without an element of excitement or risk.
Fun facts
- Psychologists study thrill-seekers to understand how high-sensation seekers process dopamine differently in their brains.
Related words
Explore more words
enthusiastic, exhilarating, adrenaline, avid, reckless, intrepid
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