What does hiker mean?
A hiker is a person who undertakes a walk over a considerable distance, usually for recreation, exercise, exploration, or travel. The word commonly evokes countryside, mountains, forests, and marked trails, although it can also describe a person walking a long urban route. “Day hiker” refers to someone who completes a walk and returns home within the same day, while “backpacker” may suggest someone carrying overnight equipment. Hiker is useful when the emphasis is on the activity of walking rather than on speed or competition; a runner, cyclist, or vehicle user would normally require a different term. In general British and American English, the word is straightforward and carries no strong regional or social connotations.
nounA person who walks a long distance, especially for pleasure or exercise, typically through the countryside or along a trail.
- A person who walks a long distance, especially for recreation or exercise in the countryside.
"The hiker stopped at the summit to enjoy the view before continuing along the trail."
"We passed several day hikers on the mountain path."
"Experienced hikers should carry sufficient water and navigation equipment."
The standard plural is formed by adding -s.
"The hikers set out early to avoid the afternoon heat."
A hiker is not merely a walker: the word usually suggests a purposeful journey across trails, hills, or open country.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does hiker come from?
The word “hiker” is formed from “hike” by adding the agent suffix -er, meaning “a person who hikes.” “Hike” is recorded in English from the early 19th century and was originally associated with walking or trudging over long distances. Its precise earlier origin is uncertain, so it is best treated as an English formation whose modern sense developed alongside the popular activity of recreational walking.
Related word forms
How hiker is actually used
Hiker is neutral in register and generally refers to someone who walks a substantial distance outdoors, often on a trail or in hilly terrain.