WordGarden.iowalker
B2Pronunciation
UK
- /wˈɔːkə/
US
- /ˈwɔkər/
Meanings
Noun
a person who walks, especially for exercise or as a usual way of getting around
a frame with wheels or legs used as a mobility aid while walking
Beyond the definition
A "walker" most often means a person who goes on foot. It can be anyone out for a stroll, someone walking for exercise, or a person on a path or sidewalk. The word can also mean a support frame used by someone who needs help with balance while moving around. The context usually makes the meaning clear. You may also hear it in phrases like "power walker" for someone who walks fast for exercise, or "early walker" for a baby who starts walking at a young age.
The word "walker" has two main uses. Most often, it means a person who is walking or who usually goes places on foot. You can use it for someone taking a calm walk in the park, a person walking along a city street, or someone walking for fitness. In many cases, it is close in meaning to "pedestrian," though "walker" can sound a little more general or descriptive.
The word also refers to a mobility aid: a frame that helps a person keep their balance while moving. People often use one after an injury, during recovery, or in old age. Some have wheels, and some do not. In this sense, the word names the device itself, not the person using it.
There are also common phrases built from it. A "power walker" is someone who walks quickly for exercise. An "early walker" is a baby who begins to walk sooner than usual. In some contexts, especially outdoor ones, the word can also describe a person who enjoys long walks or hikes. So the meaning can point either to a person on foot or to the frame that helps someone move safely.
Examples
- 1
Walking speed
She's a fast walker, so it's hard to keep up with her.
- 2
Shared path
The river path is popular with walkers and cyclists, especially on weekends.
- 3
Walking habits
I'm not much of a walker, so I usually take the bus if it's far.
- Phrasenot much of a walker
someone who does not enjoy walking very much
- 4
Dog walking
He earns extra money as a dog walker after school.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Mobility aid
After her hip surgery, she used a walker for about a month.
See also
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- walkernoun
Forms
- walkerspluralnoun