globetrotter
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /ɡlˈəʊbtrɒtə/
US
- /ˈɡloʊbtrɔtər/
Description
- world traveler
- frequent traveler
- travel lover
- international adventurer
A globetrotter is not just someone who goes on vacation now and then; it is someone who lives for travel. Picture a person moving from country to country, always ready to see a new place, meet new people, and learn how others live. The word suggests a person who travels a lot, often with a sense of adventure, and who looks beyond the usual tourist stops. You might say someone is "living the life of a globetrotter" if they are always on the move and always planning the next trip.
The word "globetrotter" evokes images of well-worn passports, exotic souvenirs, and stories from the far-flung corners of the earth. It describes a person who travels the world extensively, often for pleasure or adventure, but sometimes for work or exploration. While anyone can take a trip, a true globetrotter isn't just ticking destinations off a list; they are immersing themselves in different cultures, embracing new experiences, and collecting memories along the way.
The term originated in the late 19th century, when the increased accessibility of transportation—like transcontinental trains and steamships—made international travel more feasible for those with the means. Today, it still carries a romantic connotation of freedom, independence, and an unquenchable thirst for discovery. You might describe someone as a "seasoned globetrotter" if they've been wandering the map for years, or say that "she aspires to be a globetrotter" if she dreams of a life without borders.
However, it's worth noting that the term can sometimes carry an implication of privilege, as the ability to travel extensively often requires significant financial resources and time. Nevertheless, at its heart, "globetrotter" represents a spirit of adventure and a passion for exploring our planet. For example: "After retiring, old Mr. Henderson finally realized his dream of becoming a globetrotter, spending each winter in a different tropical paradise." Or: "The documentary followed the inspiring journey of a young woman who became a globetrotter on a shoestring budget, proving that adventure can be accessible to anyone with enough grit."
Examples
- 1
Life after college
Maya became a real globetrotter after college, spending a few months in a different country each year.
- 2
Budget travel
The blog is full of tips for budget globetrotters who want to travel light.
- 3
Limited travel
He isn't much of a globetrotter, so moving abroad for work felt like a huge step.
Phrase
not much of a
not really
- 4
Work travel
From airport lounges to remote mountain towns, the job turned her into a reluctant globetrotter.
Pattern
turn X into Y
cause X to become Y
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- globetrotternoun