daredevil
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /dˈeədɛvəl/
US
- /ˈdɛrˌdɛvəl/
Description
- risk-taker
- reckless adventurer
- fearless performer
- thrill-seeker
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!
"Daredevil" describes a person who engages in extremely risky or dangerous activities, typically as a form of entertainment or personal challenge. It's more than just being courageous; a daredevil actively seeks out situations that most people would avoid at all costs.
The term comes from the idea of "daring the devil"—facing danger to prove bravery—and over time it became a common label for people who perform spectacular and perilous stunts. Think of Evel Knievel jumping over a row of buses on his motorcycle, or Nik Wallenda walking across Niagara Falls on a tightrope. These are iconic examples of daredevil stunts.
However, "daredevil" isn't limited to physical feats. You might call an entrepreneur who invests everything in a new startup a "business daredevil," or someone who speaks their mind fearlessly a "social daredevil." The key element is the willingness to take significant risks, often with little margin for error.
It's important to note that while the term implies excitement and bravery, it doesn't necessarily equate to recklessness. Many daredevils are highly skilled professionals who meticulously plan their stunts to minimize danger. They aren't simply throwing caution to the wind; they're calculating risks and pushing the limits of human capability.
So, whether soaring through the air or taking a leap of faith in life, a daredevil is someone who embraces risk and thrives on the adrenaline rush that comes with it—a captivating figure who embodies both courage and a touch of wild abandon.
Examples
- 1
Risky teenager
As a teenager, he was a daredevil who loved climbing onto roofs and diving into the river.
- 2
Stunt performer
Crowds gathered to watch a motorcycle daredevil jump over twenty cars.
- 3
Stunt show
The show is full of daredevil stunts and near misses.
- 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