WordGarden.ioracer
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /rˈeɪsə/
US
- /ˈreɪsər/
Meanings
Noun
a person who competes in races, especially for speed
a racing car, bicycle, or similar vehicle built for speed
a fast, slender snake, especially a nonvenomous one
Beyond the definition
A racer is usually someone who takes part in a race, such as a car driver, cyclist, runner, or rider. The word can also mean a vehicle made for racing, like a fast car, bike, or boat. In another common use, a racer is a type of quick-moving snake. The meaning is usually clear from the situation.
The word "racer" brings to mind speed and competition. Most often, it means a person who takes part in races. This could be a car driver, a motorcycle rider, a cyclist, a runner, or someone in another kind of racing event. If you say, "She is a skilled racer," you mean she competes in races and does it well.
The word can also refer to the thing used in the race, especially a vehicle built for speed. A team might talk about a new racer when they mean a racing car, motorcycle, or boat. In this sense, the word points to a machine designed for competition rather than for everyday travel.
In the natural world, "racer" is also the name of several kinds of fast-moving snakes, such as the black racer in North America. These snakes are known for their speed, which is why the name fits them so well.
So the word usually points to one of three ideas: a competitor, a racing vehicle, or a snake. The context normally makes the meaning clear.
Examples
- 1
Motorcycle sport
Her brother is a professional motorcycle racer.
- 2
Starting line
The racers lined up at the starting line and waited for the signal.
- 3
Downhill sport
She was a strong downhill racer even as a teenager.
- 4
Illegal racing
Police stopped two street racers on the highway late at night.
- Phrasestreet racer
someone who races cars illegally on public roads
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
Contrast
Used with (collocations)
- professional racer
- amateur racer
- Formula One racer
Word family
Explore
- motorsport
- finish line
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- racernoun
Forms
- racerspluralnoun