What does skater mean?
A skater is someone who moves on skates, including ice skaters, roller skaters, inline skaters, and, in informal usage, skateboarders. The term covers both recreational and competitive participants, so a qualification such as “figure skater,” “speed skater,” or “inline skater” gives more precise information. In ordinary contexts, “skater” is neutral and carries no strong positive or negative connotation. The word is useful because it identifies a person through the activity and equipment involved rather than through age, nationality, or other social details. Its meaning can also broaden in youth culture, where it may be used simply to describe someone who rides a skateboard.
nounA person who skates, especially on ice, roller skates, or inline skates.
- A person who skates, especially on ice, roller skates, or inline skates.
"The young skater glided across the ice with surprising confidence."
"The skater practiced her turns before the competition began."
"Every evening, a skater glides along the promenade on inline skates."
The plural is used for multiple people who skate.
"The skaters gathered beside the rink before the performance."
From frozen rinks to smooth sidewalks, a skater turns balance and motion into a form of play.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does skater come from?
The word “skater” was formed in the 19th century by adding the agent suffix “-er” to “skate.” “Skate” comes from the verb meaning to move on skates, and ultimately relates to the Old Norse word skeith, associated with a sharp or slippery surface. The modern development of skating sports and, later, skateboarding broadened the range of activities and people covered by the term.
Related word forms
How skater is actually used
The word is generally neutral. It is often specified by a preceding noun such as ice, roller, figure, inline, or skateboard, and can also refer informally to a skateboarder.
Easily confused with skater
A skater moves on skates or a skateboard, whereas a skateboarder specifically rides a skateboard.