Daredevil
/ˈdeərˌdevəl/
Definitions
2 meaningsA recklessly bold or daring person; someone who enjoys taking dangerous risks.
/ˈdeərˌdevəl/
A reckless person who enjoys dangerous acts.
He's a real daredevil, always looking for the next adrenaline rush.
💡 Simply: Imagine someone who loves doing really risky and exciting things, like riding a roller coaster super fast or jumping off a high dive. That person is a daredevil! They are all about the thrill and aren't afraid of a little danger. It's like being a super-brave adventurer who wants to try crazy stuff.
👶 For kids: A daredevil is someone who likes to do dangerous and exciting things, like jumping off a high diving board!
More Examples
The daredevil motorcyclist thrilled the crowd with his high-speed stunts.
She was a celebrated daredevil, known for her daring mountain climbs.
How It's Used
"The stuntman was a well-known daredevil, famous for his motorcycle jumps."
"The film featured several scenes showcasing the daredevil's incredible feats."
Recklessly bold or daring; characterized by a willingness to take risks.
/ˈdeərˌdevəl/
Describes someone or something that is recklessly bold or daring.
The daredevil race involved cars speeding around a dangerous track.
💡 Simply: Think of something that's really risky and exciting, like an unbelievably steep skateboard ramp. If the ramp is so extreme it’s perfect for a thrill-seeker, you could call that ramp daredevil. It means something is designed for, or reflects the character of a daredevil.
👶 For kids: Daredevil can also describe things that are very exciting, risky, and adventurous.
More Examples
The daredevil jumps were the highlight of the airshow.
He took a daredevil approach to investing, which paid off handsomely.
How It's Used
"The daredevil stunts were thrilling to watch during the airshow."
"The film's daredevil action sequences kept audiences on the edge of their seats."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
From 'dare' (to challenge) and 'devil' (referencing recklessness and courage). First attested in the early 20th century, originally applied to stunt performers and later broadened to include anyone who takes dangerous risks.
The term 'daredevil' gained popularity in the early 20th century, initially associated with performers and stuntmen.
Memory tip
Think of someone who *dares* to be as bold as a *devil*. They thrive on risk!
Word Origin
"To challenge and to exhibit reckless courage."