trek
TREK
/trɛk/
A long, arduous journey, typically on foot, often through mountainous or difficult terrain.
Unlike a 'hike,' which implies a leisure activity, a trek suggests a multi-day commitment and significant physical effort.
The story behind the word. The word comes from the Dutch 'trekken,' meaning to pull or haul. It entered English via South African Dutch (Afrikaans), referring to the migration of settlers in ox-wagons. It literally meant 'to pull' the heavy wagons across the land.
Word relationships
- expedition: An expedition is usually more organized and has a specific scientific or exploratory goal.
- hike: A hike is generally shorter and less physically demanding than a trek.
- stroll: A stroll is a relaxed, easy walk for pleasure.
Commonly confused with
- track: A track is a path or a trail; a trek is the journey itself.
Word family
- trekker (noun): A person who goes on a long, difficult journey on foot.
- trekking (noun): The activity of going on treks.
Collocations
- arduous trek
- jungle trek
- trek across
- day trek
Example sentences
- "The Boers began their Great Trek into the interior of the country to escape British rule." Describing a historical journey across Africa.
- "We spent three weeks on a trek through the Himalayas, carrying only what we could fit in our packs." Modern adventure travel.
Memory hook
Think of 'Star Trek'—a long, difficult journey through the stars. Trek = Travel + Reckon (it's going to be hard).
When not to use
Do not use for a short walk in a city park or a quick stroll to the store.
Fun facts
- The term became globally popular after the 'Great Trek' of the 1830s in South Africa.
Related words
Explore more words
traverse, pilgrimage, strive, plodding, perseverance, terrain
Take your vocabulary further with LangBlitz
Our English vocabulary app: FSRS spaced repetition, 5,000+ curated words across 119 topic groups, CEFR A1 to C2. Explore your mastery with the beautiful Vocabulary World feature.