English Reference
noun

walker

n.
US /ˈwɔkɝ/ UK /wˈɔːkɐ/ walk·er UK spelling walkers

  1. 01 A2 Elementary

    a person who walks, especially for exercise or as a hobby.

    a person who walks, particularly one who does so for recreation, fitness, or as a pedestrian.

    Simple

    The park is very popular with local walkers and dog owners.

    In context

    The trail is well-maintained, though casual walkers should be aware that the final ascent requires sturdy footwear and a moderate level of fitness.

  2. 02 B1 Intermediate Medicine

    a metal frame that helps an elderly or injured person walk safely.

    a waist-high metal framework designed to provide stability and support for individuals with mobility impairments.

    Simple

    After his hip surgery, he used a walker to get around the house.

    In context

    The occupational therapist adjusted the height of the walker to ensure the patient could maintain an upright posture while navigating the hospital corridors.

    walking framezimmer frame
  3. 03 B2 Upper Intermediate Informal

    a name for a zombie, often used in horror movies and TV shows.

    a fictional reanimated corpse or zombie, specifically within the lexicon of certain post-apocalyptic media franchises.

    Simple

    In the show, the characters have to hide whenever a walker is nearby.

    In context

    The series subverted genre tropes by referring to the undead as walkers, emphasizing their relentless, slow-moving nature rather than using the traditional term.

  4. 04 C2 Proficiency Technical Sport

    a player who leaves the field when they know they are out, without waiting for the umpire.

    a batsman who voluntarily leaves the wicket after concluding they are out, regardless of the umpire's formal decision.

    Simple

    He was known as a walker who always respected the spirit of the game.

    In context

    While the captain was a renowned walker, his teammates often preferred to wait for the umpire's signal during high-stakes international fixtures.

  5. 05 C1 Advanced Formal

    a man who goes to social events with a woman as her companion.

    a male companion who accompanies a woman to social functions, often without a romantic involvement.

    Simple

    She needed a walker for the charity gala since her husband was away.

    In context

    In high-society circles of the mid-twentieth century, a reliable walker was considered an essential companion for widows attending evening operas and balls.


Etymology 1

From Hookey Walker.

Etymology 2

From Walk(ing Liberty) + -er.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Level B1 · Intermediate
Frequency Common
Updated