# prospector

/ˈpɹɔˌspɛktɝ/ (US) · /pɹəspˈɛktɐ/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/prospector
Updated: 2026-10-16

## Definition

someone who searches in nature for gold, silver, or other valuable metals and minerals. You often see this word in stories about the old gold rush.

For teachers: a person who explores land in search of mineral deposits, especially gold or silver. Often associated with small-scale mining and historical gold rushes.

## Examples

- The prospector searches the river for gold.
- The young prospector spends months in the mountains testing soil samples for traces of copper.
- Disillusioned by city life, the aging prospector returns to the hills each spring, convinced that one rich vein will justify decades of hardship.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.