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daredevil

C2
nounadjective

Pronunciation

UK

  • /dˈeədɛvəl/

US

  • /ˈdɛrˌdɛvəl/

Description

A daredevil isn't just brave—they seek out danger! Think of someone leaping across a canyon on a motorcycle or walking a tightrope between skyscrapers. They don't do these things because they have to; they choose them for the thrill and the show. The word brings to mind stunt performers, extreme sports fans, and anyone who pushes the limits in a way that looks reckless. While it's often linked to physical feats, you can also describe someone as a "daredevil" if they take big risks at work or in their personal life—like starting an ambitious business venture.

The term once described someone who accepted challenges meant to test their courage, but now it's more commonly used for people who perform dangerous stunts. A daredevil isn't necessarily foolish; often, years of training and careful planning go into reducing risk, even while it looks like they're embracing it!

Examples

  1. 1

    Risky teenager

    As a teenager, he was a daredevil who loved climbing onto roofs and diving into the river.

  2. 2

    Stunt performer

    Crowds gathered to watch a motorcycle daredevil jump over twenty cars.

  3. 3

    Stunt show

    The show is full of daredevil stunts and near misses.

  4. 4

    Business risk

    Her daredevil approach to starting a business impressed some people and worried others.

    • Phrase

      daredevil approach

      a very bold and risky way of doing something

Forms and spellings

2 forms open this card.

Main spelling

  • daredevilnounadjective

Forms

  • daredevilspluralnounadjective