traveller meaning urban

What you need to know about Denver in 5 min.

What’s the difference between an “urban traveler” and a homeless kid? Not much.

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In the minutes after a fatal shooting in a downtown office, two local news anchors started to speculate.

We'd been hearing every few nights about the latest in a string of violent incidents on the 16th Street Mall, many of them involving apparently homeless people.

Now, the television asked, had scuffles and stabbings turned into shootings?

Cara Russell was murdered by her estranged husband, a flight instructor. But it had sounded for a minute like another point in a trend.

Violence on 16th Street Mall has been a huge topic in local news this summer. Just a few days earlier, Mayor Michael Hancock had warned of a "scourge of hoodlums."

One group in particular has attracted much of the blame: "Urban travelers." They are the people who come each summer to live in the city's parks and streets. The general perception is that they're young, they skateboard and they wear dreadlocks.

"We're not talking about Denver's homeless," Hancock said. Later, he  told the Denver Post there were about 150 travelers in town. He has argued that the worst of them are out to cause trouble by intimidating and harassing the city's residents.

"They’re taking beds from our chronically homeless people,” the mayor said .

The Colorado Springs Business Journal echoed his logic, recently arguing that what Denver's seeing is part of a larger "roving gang of vagrants" that has descended on the Front Range.

"These young men and women aren’t the same as the homeless population that typically populates city centers," the editorial claimed.

"Instead, they enjoy being rude, obscene, overly forceful ... They only want your cash, not your assistance — and certainly not a job."

Let's start basic: Do travelers really come here?

Yes. There really is a group of traveling young people who loop between Denver and other cities. They don't call themselves "urban travelers," but they might say "gypsy" or "traveler."

Generally, they take pride in being different from locally homeless people ("homebums," as some say) and from mainstream culture.

" I don’t want any child of mine to be born in a hospital, or have a Social Security number, or any of that. I wish I didn't have that," says Prax, a 20-something who was passing through Denver this winter.

Hancock has said that travelers come to Denver for marijuana, and that's certainly true in many cases.

"I can’t tell you how many times I’ve talked to kids – why are you here? I’m here for the weed," says Doyle Robinson, founder of the Sox Place daytime shelter.

Why are they traveling?

I've conducted a couple dozen interviews with young, traveling people around downtown Denver over the last year.

Like I said above, many of them take pride in a kind of bohemian lifestyle. They like to make fun of yuppies. They don't get why you'd stay cooped up in an office all day.

Yet most told me, eventually, that their travels began with some familiar problem: Substance abuse, mental illness, abusive environments, incarceration. They shared a lack of faith in the system.

"As far as stability’s concerned though - it’s totally an illusion," Prax says. "You can’t count on anything, day to day. Maybe that’s what I learned, losing everything."

Academic research shows much the same. A University of Illinois study on runaway youth found the following correlations:

• Kids in foster care were almost four times more likely to run away from home
• People who identified as bisexual were three times more likely to leave home
• Verbal, physical and sexual abuse all correlated with running away
• Runaways are far more likely to use marijuana, but not alcohol, than the population at large

"Most of the people I know on the road - we were all, including myself - we were all abused and became runaways," says Nick, a visitor to Denver who spends his days outdoors. "We weren’t dealing with the foster parents and the bullshit."

Why are they getting so much attention this summer?

Well, some of the suspects in these latest cases have indeed lived transiently.

Clarence Seeley, who is accused of hitting people with a PVC pipe , reportedly had been in town for less than ten days at the time of the assault. In an interview with KDVR , he said that he came to Denver for legal marijuana to treat his schizophrenia.

I also tracked suspects from the fight involving an officer worker; at least two of the four had lived or been charged in California.

But what do we know beyond these few incidents?

The bigger question – of whether travelers are especially violent  – is much murkier. It's not like "urban traveler" is a checkbox on an arrest report, and it's not a distinction used by any research I've read.

What I can say, though, is that travelers have a good reputation in Denver's street culture.

"Travelers are ones who ride trains, who may have an old van they’re traveling through with. They’re the most polite, appreciative respectful segment we have," says Doyle Robinson. "I wish we could close our doors to everybody but them."

I asked the same question to a group of young, locally homeless people: What's different about travelers?

“They’re ignorant," says Yousef, who grew up middle class in Denver.

“But pretty much they’re like any other homeless kid," adds Skinny, who traveled until heroin got him stuck here.

"Looking for something," Yousef quips.

Then what explains the violence?

There's no denying that this summer has brought violence, drug abuse and aggressive confrontations.

To be fair, all that happens in downtown Denver's club scene too. Doyle Robinson says he sees more public urination by well-dressed drinkers than his own clients.

Yet he acknowledges too that aggression and anti-social behavior is common among young people experiencing homelessness. I hear the same from travelers and locals alike.

"If I say 'nice shoes,' and they don't respond, then (I say) 'FUCK YOU,'" Yousef explains.

Aggression is a way to be heard, he says, in a world that looks down on him. It's also a well-documented reaction to trauma and violence.

Witnessing violence can drive "behavior problems, aggression in peer interactions, social isolation and rejection, and diverse other consequences" among homeless kids, according to a study published by Aggression and Violent Behavior.

In a study in Denver and Los Angeles, about one of three homeless youth showed symptoms of PTSD. This doesn't mean that you should fear people you see on the streets – but it does show how living out there can create this tension between housed and house-less people, and it points at just how deep these issues run.

"This is what the public sees: They don’t see broken lives and damaged souls. They don’t see addictions and mental illness and homelessness," says Doyle Robinson. "They see this loud, obnoxious behavior. Rude, stubborn. 'I don’t want to get out of the way. Why should I get out of the way?' They see the trash, they see the loud talking."

What's next?

We'll be watching the story of this summer's violence on two fronts.

The first is security.  This month, the Downtown Denver Partnership will roll out a private security force on 16th Street, at a cost of $1 million per year, and the city police has put more officers on the beat.

We can't say yet whether that change will reduce crime on the Mall. If it succeeds, the city still may be left with these issues in other parts of the city.

The second part of this story is about what the city does beyond enforcement. Mayor Hancock announced his affordable-housing plan earlier this summer.

As it evolves, we'll be asking just how it and the rest of the city's efforts might change what we see on Denver's streets.

Reporter Andrew Kenney is at [email protected]   or  twitter.com/andyknny .

Andrew Kenney has worked as a Public Affairs reporter for Colorado Public Radio since 2019. He previously worked at The Denver Post, Denverite and The (Raleigh) News & Observer.

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Top 20 Slang For Travel – Meaning & Usage

Whether you’re a seasoned globetrotter or planning your first adventure, staying up to date with the latest slang for travel can make your journeys even more exciting. From “wanderlust” to “jet lagged,” our team has scoured the globe to bring you a curated list of the most trendy and essential travel slang. So pack your bags, get ready to explore, and let us be your guide to the lingo of the wanderlusters!

Click above to generate some slangs

1. Hit the road

This phrase is used to indicate the beginning of a trip or adventure. It can be used both literally and figuratively.

• For example , “We packed up the car and hit the road for our cross-country road trip.”
• Someone might say , “I’ve been stuck at home for too long, it’s time to hit the road and explore.”
• In a figurative sense , a person might say, “I’ve accomplished all my goals here, it’s time to hit the road and find new opportunities.”

2. Globetrotter

This term refers to someone who travels frequently or extensively to various parts of the world.

• For instance , “As a globetrotter, she has visited over 50 countries.”
• A travel blogger might describe themselves as a globetrotter , saying, “Follow my adventures as a globetrotter exploring the world.”
• In a conversation about travel , someone might ask, “Are you a globetrotter or do you prefer to stay in one place?”

3. Take off

This phrase is used to indicate the start of a journey or flight. It can be used for both literal and figurative departures.

• For example , “The plane is about to take off, please fasten your seatbelts.”
• Someone might say , “I’m taking off for my vacation tomorrow, can’t wait to relax on the beach.”
• In a figurative sense , a person might say, “I need to take off from work early today to attend a family event.”

This slang phrase means to leave for a trip or vacation in a hurry or without much notice.

• For instance , “She jetted off to Paris for a weekend getaway.”
• A friend might say , “I’m jetting off to visit my family in another state.”
• In a conversation about travel plans , someone might ask, “When are you jetting off on your next adventure?”

5. Get a little R&R

This phrase is an abbreviation for “rest and relaxation.” It refers to taking time off to relax and unwind from daily stress or work.

• For example , “After a busy week, I’m looking forward to getting a little R&R at the beach.”
• Someone might say , “I’m planning a spa weekend to get some much-needed R&R.”
• In a discussion about self-care , a person might suggest, “Take some time for yourself and get a little R&R to recharge.”

6. Backpacking

Backpacking refers to a style of travel where individuals carry their belongings in a backpack and typically stay in budget accommodations or camp. It often involves exploring multiple destinations and immersing oneself in the local culture.

• For example , “I’m going backpacking through Europe this summer.”
• A traveler might say , “Backpacking allows you to have more flexibility and freedom in your journey.”
• Someone might ask , “Do you have any tips for backpacking on a tight budget?”

7. Sightseeing

Sightseeing involves visiting famous landmarks, attractions, or points of interest in a particular destination. It often includes activities such as taking guided tours, visiting museums, or exploring natural wonders.

• For instance , “I spent the day sightseeing in Paris and saw the Eiffel Tower.”
• A traveler might say , “Sightseeing is a great way to learn about the history and culture of a new place.”
• Someone might ask , “What are the must-see sights when sightseeing in New York City?”

Wandering refers to exploring a destination without a specific plan or itinerary. It involves taking spontaneous detours, getting lost in the streets, and embracing the unexpected discoveries along the way.

• For example , “I love to wander through the narrow alleys of old cities.”
• A traveler might say , “Wandering allows you to stumble upon hidden gems and experience the local vibe.”
• Someone might ask , “Do you have any tips for wandering around a new city safely?”

Roaming involves moving freely and aimlessly, without a specific purpose or destination in mind. It often implies a sense of adventure and exploration, as one roams through different places and experiences.

• For instance , “I spent the day roaming the streets of Tokyo.”
• A traveler might say , “Roaming allows you to embrace spontaneity and go wherever your curiosity takes you.”
• Someone might ask , “What are the best neighborhoods to roam around in London?”

Cruising refers to traveling in a relaxed and leisurely manner, often by ship. It can also refer to driving or moving smoothly and effortlessly through a destination, enjoying the scenery and taking in the surroundings.

• For example , “We went on a Caribbean cruise and visited multiple islands.”
• A traveler might say , “Cruising allows you to enjoy a stress-free vacation and explore different ports of call.”
• Someone might ask , “What are the best cruise destinations for first-time travelers?”

11. Wanderer

A wanderer is someone who travels aimlessly or without a specific destination. It can also refer to someone who enjoys exploring new places and experiencing different cultures.

• For example , “He quit his job and became a wanderer, traveling from country to country.”
• A travel blogger might describe themselves as a wanderer , saying, “I’m always on the move, seeking new adventures.”
• In a conversation about travel , someone might ask, “Are you more of a planner or a wanderer?”

12. Road tripper

A road tripper is someone who enjoys traveling long distances by car, often taking a leisurely route and making stops along the way to explore different places.

• For instance , “We’re going on a road trip across the country and plan to visit several national parks.”
• A group of friends might say , “Let’s gather some snacks and hit the road as road trippers.”
• In a discussion about travel preferences , someone might ask, “Are you a road tripper or do you prefer flying?”

13. Travel enthusiast

A travel enthusiast is someone who has a strong interest in and passion for traveling. They enjoy exploring new destinations, trying new experiences, and immersing themselves in different cultures.

• For example , “She’s a travel enthusiast who has visited over 50 countries.”
• A travel blogger might describe themselves as a travel enthusiast , saying, “I’m constantly planning my next adventure.”
• In a conversation about hobbies , someone might ask, “Are you a travel enthusiast? Where have you been?”

14. Explore new horizons

To explore new horizons means to venture into unfamiliar territories or to try new travel experiences. It refers to the act of broadening one’s travel experiences and seeking out new destinations or activities.

• For instance , “I’m ready to explore new horizons and visit countries I’ve never been to before.”
• A travel agency might advertise , “Let us help you explore new horizons with our unique travel packages.”
• In a conversation about travel goals , someone might say, “I want to explore new horizons and step out of my comfort zone.”

15. Adventure seeker

An adventure seeker is someone who actively seeks out thrilling and exciting experiences while traveling. They enjoy activities such as hiking, skydiving, and exploring challenging terrains.

• For example , “He’s an adventure seeker who loves bungee jumping and rock climbing.”
• An adventure travel company might target adventure seekers , saying, “Join us for adrenaline-pumping experiences around the world.”
• In a discussion about travel preferences , someone might ask, “Are you more of a beach relaxer or an adventure seeker?”

16. Travel aficionado

This term refers to someone who is extremely passionate and knowledgeable about travel. A travel aficionado is someone who has a deep love for exploring new places and experiencing different cultures.

• For example , a travel aficionado might say, “I’ve been to over 50 countries and counting. Traveling is my biggest passion.”
• In a conversation about favorite destinations , a person might ask, “Any recommendations for a travel aficionado like me?”
• Someone might describe themselves as a travel aficionado by saying , “I spend all my free time planning my next adventure. I’m a true travel aficionado.”

17. Jet off to paradise

This phrase is used to describe traveling to a beautiful, exotic location, typically a tropical paradise. It implies a sense of excitement and luxury associated with traveling to a dream destination.

• For instance , someone might say, “I can’t wait to jet off to paradise and relax on the beach.”
• In a conversation about vacation plans , a person might say, “We’re jetting off to paradise next month for our honeymoon.”
• A travel blogger might write , “If you’re looking to escape the cold, jet off to paradise and enjoy the crystal-clear waters and white sandy beaches.”

18. Travel the world

This phrase is a common expression used to describe the act of traveling to various countries and experiencing different cultures. It emphasizes the idea of exploring and broadening one’s horizons through travel.

• For example , someone might say, “My dream is to quit my job and travel the world.”
• In a conversation about travel goals , a person might ask, “Have you ever wanted to travel the world and see all the wonders it has to offer?”
• A travel vlogger might say , “I’ve been lucky enough to travel the world and document my adventures on YouTube.”

19. Go on a journey

This phrase is used to describe the act of starting a new travel experience or adventure. It conveys a sense of excitement and anticipation for what lies ahead.

• For instance , someone might say, “I’m ready to go on a journey and explore new places.”
• In a conversation about travel plans , a person might ask, “Where are you going on your next journey?”
• A travel writer might describe their latest trip by saying , “I recently went on a journey through Europe, visiting multiple countries and immersing myself in the local culture.”

20. Travel in style

This phrase is used to describe traveling with a sense of luxury and style. It implies that the person is not just focused on getting from one place to another, but also on enjoying the journey and making a statement with their travel choices.

• For example , someone might say, “I always travel in style, staying in the finest hotels and flying first class.”
• In a conversation about travel preferences , a person might ask, “Do you prefer to travel in style or are you more budget-conscious?”
• A travel influencer might post on social media , “Traveling in style is all about the little details. From designer luggage to luxury accommodations, I always make sure to travel in style.”

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March 1, 2023

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America on the move: How urban travel has changed over a decade

by Florida Atlantic University

A new Florida Atlantic University study on America's urban travel trends shows important variations in travel behaviors across income, home ownership, ethnicity, gender, age, and life-cycle stages. The sixth in a series of studies compared changes in travel modes, trip frequency, trip distance and vehicle ownership among a range of socioeconomic groups using nationwide travel survey data since 1977.

The most notable trend, published in the journal Transportation Research Part D , reveals that although private automobiles continue to be the dominant travel mode in American cities, the share of car trips has slightly and steadily decreased since its peak in 2001. In contrast, the share of transit, non-motorized, and taxicab (including ride-hailing) trips has steadily increased.

The lowest income group ( household income less than $25,000), who were more likely to be minorities and without cars, were heavily reliant on transit—especially buses—to fulfill their mobility needs. Their daily trip frequencies and daily miles traveled were considerably lower than those of higher income groups. Mobility challenges in this income group were more severe in small and mid-size cities, where the supply of transit is more limited than large cities.

"Examining differences in travel patterns can help policy makers to better evaluate the effects of existing transportation services and infrastructure developments, to identify the sub-groups that deserve special attention for future transport plans, and to design more sustainable and equitable transport policies at local, state and federal levels," said John L. Renne, Ph.D., co-author, professor and director, Center for Urban & Environmental Solutions (CUES) in FAU's Charles E. Schmidt College of Science.

Among the study findings:

• Non-Hispanic whites are the most auto-oriented ethnicity group, with 81.5 percent of their trips by automobile, followed by Hispanics with 80.2 percent of their trips by automobile.
• Hispanics are higher in carpooling (48 percent of their total trips), compared to non-Hispanic whites (41.3 percent).
• Blacks were the highest in bus transit trips (5.8 percent), and Asians were the highest in rail transit trips (2.2 percent). Asians also had the highest share of non-motorized trips (17.7 percent); Hispanics had the lowest share of non-motorized trips (13.1 percent).
• Females had slightly higher shares of automobile trips than males (80.6 percent vs. 78.7 percent); specifically, females had a higher share of carpools than males (45.2 percent vs. 39.6 percent), and males had a higher share of solo driving than females (39.1 percent vs. 35.4 percent). Males have higher shares of bicycle trips than females (1.6 percent vs. 0.7 percent).
• Non-motorized trips for whites and blacks are comparable (about 14 percent), however, whites had a much higher share of cycling trips than blacks (1.3 percent vs. 0.5 percent, respectively).
• Although the share of taxicab trips was comparable across different racial profiles, it was lowest among whites, at 0.5 percent.
• For homeowners, from 2009 to 2017, solo driving trips decreased from 42.3 percent to 40.1 percent, and carpooling trips increased from 43.8 percent to 44.7 percent. Renters exhibited the opposite trend: solo driving trips increased from 30.5 percent to 32.1 percent, and carpooling trips decreased from 41.6 percent to 38.8 percent.
• The average miles traveled per day for the lowest income group was 36 percent lower (14.3 miles vs. 19.5 miles) than the second-lowest income group ($25,000 -$49,999).
• The highest income group made 31.4 percent of the total peak-hour transit trips but only 22.1 percent of the non-peak-hour transit trips; the lowest income group made only 28.7 percent of the peak-hour transit trips but 43 percent of the total non-peak-hour transit trips.
• Most older adults heavily relied on driving and are not regular transit patrons, ride-hailing users, or cyclists.

Renne and Xize Yang, Ph.D., co-author, National University of Singapore, suggest many different factors may be contributing to this general trend of "peak and decline." These include robust transit and non-motorized infrastructures in urban neighborhoods and college towns, higher gasoline prices, and the rise of online retailers such as Amazon and Uber Eats as well as shared mobility such as ride-hailing, bike and scooter sharing.

In addition, working from home and flexible working schedules have been gaining popularity. The share of Americans working from home increased from 3.3 percent in 2000 to 4.3 percent in 2009, and 5.2 percent in 2017. The researchers suggest post-covid American cities will see further increases in the share of working-from-home arrangements.

"Our study suggests that certain factors make automobile use particularly dominant in America. These include some combination of households earning more than $25,000, owning a home, owning two or more vehicles, and having children result in a strong propensity to use an automobile for the vast majority of trips," said Renne.

Researchers used the 2017 National Household Travel Survey (NHTS), which is the most recent nationally representative travel survey in the U.S. It was first released in 2018 and then updated in 2019 and 2020. They compared these variations in the 2017 NHTS with its predecessors, the Nationwide Personal Transportation Surveys (NPTS) in 1969, 1977, 1983, 1990 and 1995; and the NHTS in 2001 and 2009 based on earlier studies in this series.

Provided by Florida Atlantic University

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traveller | traveler noun

• Hide all quotations

What does the noun traveller mean?

There are 18 meanings listed in OED's entry for the noun traveller , four of which are labelled obsolete. See ‘Meaning & use’ for definitions, usage, and quotation evidence.

traveller has developed meanings and uses in subjects including

How common is the noun traveller ?

How is the noun traveller pronounced, british english, u.s. english, where does the noun traveller come from.

Earliest known use

Middle English

The earliest known use of the noun traveller is in the Middle English period (1150—1500).

OED's earliest evidence for traveller is from before 1387, in a translation by John Trevisa, translator.

traveller is formed within English, by derivation.

Etymons: travel v. , ‑er suffix 1 .

Nearby entries

• travel centre | travel center, n. 1883–
• travel document, n. 1892–
• travel expenses, n. 1839–
• travel folder, n. 1911–
• travel guide, n. 1881–
• travel industry, n. 1920–
• travel insurance, n. 1912–
• travellable | travelable, adj. 1521–
• travelled | traveled, adj. c1450–
• travelled blood | traveled blood, n. 1962–
• traveller | traveler, n. a1387–
• travelleress | traveleress, n. 1820–
• traveller-like | traveler-like, adj. 1825–
• traveller's cheque | traveler's cheque, n. 1891–
• traveller's diarrhoea | traveler's diarrhoea, n. 1890–
• travellership | travelership, n. 1824–
• traveller's joy | traveler's joy, n. 1597–
• traveller's palm | traveler's palm, n. 1850–
• traveller's tale | traveler's tale, n. 1747–
• traveller's tree | traveler's tree, n. 1809–
• travelling | traveling, n. 1489–

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Meaning & use

Pronunciation, compounds & derived words, entry history for traveller | traveler, n..

traveller, n. was revised in March 2020.

traveller, n. was last modified in March 2024.

oed.com is a living text, updated every three months. Modifications may include:

• further revisions to definitions, pronunciation, etymology, headwords, variant spellings, quotations, and dates;
• new senses, phrases, and quotations.

Revisions and additions of this kind were last incorporated into traveller, n. in March 2024.

Earlier versions of this entry were published in:

OED First Edition (1914)

• Find out more

OED Second Edition (1989)

• View traveller in OED Second Edition

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Citation details

Factsheet for traveller | traveler, n., browse entry.

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/ ˈtrævlə; ˈtrævələ /

• a person who travels, esp habitually
• See travelling salesman
• sometimes capital a member of the travelling people
• a part of a mechanism that moves in a fixed course
• a thimble fitted to slide freely on a rope, spar, or rod
• the fixed rod on which such a thimble slides

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Example sentences.

Such a requirement already existed for travellers from the UK, but this new extension brings the US in line with numerous other countries that already mandate the same.

Reed is originally from New Orleans and has been a long-time world traveller.

This is a new kind of hostel for a new generation of traveller.

Nadeau is a frequent contributor to CNN Traveller, Departures, Discovery and Grazia, and appears regularly on CNN, BBC and NPR.

She is a frequent contributor to CNN Traveller, Departures, Discovery and Grazia.

True to form, runs the story of V. S. Naipaul, the increasingly disenchanted traveller.

A colossal steam "traveller" had ceaselessly carried great blocks of stone and long steel girders from point to point.

He had the sun-scorched look of a traveller who has just crossed the Atlantic, and he smiled at Bernard with his honest eyes.

But the traveller took a wide tour; and did not bring the letter to its destination until two months after its date.

This gift of rice was especially pleasing to the traveller, as no dish is held in higher honour in Korea.

“Yes—tea,” answered the traveller with the keen grey eyes, turning, and poking the fire with the heel of his boot.

Related Words

• 1.1 Alternative forms
• 1.2 Etymology
• 1.3 Pronunciation
• 1.4.1 Derived terms
• 1.4.2 Translations
• 1.5 See also

English [ edit ]

Alternative forms [ edit ].

• traveler ( US )

Etymology [ edit ]

From Middle English traveler , travelour , travailere , travailour ( “ worker", also "traveller ” ) , equivalent to travel +‎ -er . Compare Anglo-Norman travailur , travailour , Old French travailleor , travelleeur , travelier .

Pronunciation [ edit ]

• ( UK ) IPA ( key ) : /ˈtɹævələ/ , /ˈtɹævlə/
• ( US ) IPA ( key ) : /ˈtɹævəlɚ/ , /ˈtɹævl̩ɚ/

Noun [ edit ]

traveller ( plural travellers )

• 1590 , Edmund Spenser , “Book II, Canto XII”, in The Faerie Queene.   [ … ] , London: [ … ] [ John Wolfe ] for William Ponsonbie , →OCLC , stanza 31, pages 370–371 : They were faire Ladies, till they fondly ſtriu’d / With th’ Heliconian maides for mayſtery; / Of whom they ouer-comen, were depriu’d / Of their proud beautie, and th’one moyity / Transform’d to fiſh, for their bold ſurquedry, / But th’vpper halfe their hew retayned ſtill, / And their ſweet skill in wonted melody; / Which euer after they abuſd to ill, / T’allure weake traueillers , whom gotten they did kill.
• 1678 , John Bunyan , “ The Author’s Apology for His Book ”, in The Pilgrim’s Progress from This World, to That which is to Come:   [ … ] , London: [ … ] Nath [ aniel ] Ponder   [ … ] , →OCLC ; reprinted in The Pilgrim’s Progress (The Noel Douglas Replicas), London: Noel Douglas,   [ … ] , 1928 , →OCLC : This Book will make a Travailer of thee, / If by its Counſel thou wilt ruled be; / It will direct thee to the Holy Land, / If thou wilt its Directions understand: / Yea, it will make the ſloathful, active be; / The Blind alſo, delightful things to ſee.
• 1892 , James Yoxall , chapter 5, in The Lonely Pyramid : The desert storm was riding in its strength; the travellers lay beneath the mastery of the fell simoom. Whirling wreaths and columns of burning wind, rushed around and over them.
• 1980 , Peter Hopkirk , Foreign Devils on the Silk Road ‎ [1] , Amherst : University of Massachusetts Press , published 1984 , →ISBN , →LCCN , →OCLC , pages 9–10 : Surrounding the Taklamakan on three sides are some of the highest mountain ranges in the world, with the Gobi desert blocking the fourth. Thus even the approaches to it are dangerous. Many travellers have perished on the icy passes which lead down to it from Tibet, Kashmir, Afghanistan and Russia, either by freezing to death or by missing their foothold and hurtling into a ravine below. In one disaster, in the winter of 1839, an entire caravan of forty men was wiped out by an avalanche, and even now men and beasts are lost each year. No traveller has a good word to say for the Taklamakan. Sven Hedin, one of the few Europeans to have crossed it, called it ‘the worst and most dangerous desert in the world’. Stein, who came to know it even better, considered the deserts of Arabia 'tame' by comparison. Sir Percy Sykes, the geographer, and one-time British Consul-General at Kashgar, called it 'a Land of Death', while his sister Ella, herself a veteran desert traveller , described it as 'a very abomination of desolation'. Apart from the more obvious perils, such as losing one’s way and dying of thirst, the Taklamakan has special horrors to inflict on those who trespass there. In his book Buried Treasures of Chinese Turkestan , von Le Coq describes the nightmare of being caught in that terror of all caravans, the kara-buran , or black hurricane.
• For more quotations using this term, see Citations:traveller .
• ( dated ) A salesman who travels from place to place on behalf of a company .
• ( British ) Someone who lives (particularly in the UK) in a caravan , bus or other vehicle rather than a fixed abode.
• 2010 , R. Todd Felton, A Journey Into Ireland's Literary Revival , →ISBN , page 213 : It provoked criticism for its portrayal of a woman who leaves her marriage for life with a solitary traveler . Irish women did not do those sorts of things, the audiences felt (although the plot came from a story told to Synge on Inis Meain).
• 2012 , Mark Connelly, The IRA on Film and Television: A History , →ISBN , page 212 : Kevin chases after him through a forest and finds the horse with Joseph Maguire (Ian Holm), a poetry-reciting traveler (Irish gypsy).
• 2012 , Maria Pramaggiore, Irish and African American Cinema , →ISBN , page 152 : ...settled Irish people of Southern Ireland treat the traveler boys with racist hostility (2001 180–81).
• A list and record of instructions that follows a part in a manufacturing process.
• ( electrical engineering ) One of the wires connecting the two members of a pair of three-way switches .
• ( nautical ) A metal ring that moves freely on part of a ship’s rigging .
• 1977 , New York Theatre Critics' Reviews , volumes 38-39 , page 134 : That would detract from the austerity of Rudkin's study, and a curtain on a traveler is always slid across the stage [ … ]
• 2008 , David Galt, Teach Yourself VISUALLY Bridge , →ISBN , page 263 : At the conclusion of play, the scores from all the travelers get entered into a computer.
• 2015 , Richard Grant, Dispatches from Pluto: Lost and Found in the Mississippi Delta : Nowhere else in the world had I seen such gigantic measures of liquor poured, such widespread enthusiasm for Bloodies and Mimosas on weekend mornings, or such firm insistence on giving sixteen-ounce Styrofoam cups loaded with iced liquor to guests leaving a party, so they might have a " traveler " for the drive home. At a bar in Yazoo City, the bartender asked me if I wanted to "go tall" with my bourbon on the rocks. I didn't know what he meant, but it sounded encouraging. "Sure," I said, "Let's go tall." He filled up a pint glass with ice. Then he filled it to the brim with bourbon. When I got up to leave with about half the drink gone, he poured the rest of it into a Styrofoam cup, assuming I would want a traveler .

Derived terms [ edit ]

• armchair traveller
• Canadian traveller problem
• commercial traveller
• fellow-traveller
• fellow traveller
• New Age traveller
• new age traveller
• time-traveller
• traveller's tale

Translations [ edit ]

See also [ edit ].

• Irish Traveller

• English terms inherited from Middle English
• English terms derived from Middle English
• English terms suffixed with -er
• English 3-syllable words
• English 2-syllable words
• English terms with IPA pronunciation
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Travelers vs. Travellers: The Great Spelling Debate Explained

Travelers vs. Travellers – Are you a travel enthusiast who’s always confused about how to spell the word “traveler”? Do you find yourself constantly switching between “traveler” and “traveller”? Well, you’re not alone! The great spelling debate of “traveler” versus “traveller” has been ongoing for decades, and it seems like there’s no clear winner. While both spellings are technically correct, there are some subtle differences in their usage and meaning. As a copywriter and digital marketer, I have come across this spelling conundrum numerous times, and I understand the importance of getting it right. In this article, I will explain the origins of the two spellings, their differences in usage and meaning, and provide some tips on how to choose the right spelling for your content. So, whether you’re a seasoned travel writer or just starting out, read on to unravel the mystery of the great spelling debate of “traveler” versus “traveller.” Are you looking for Travelers Insurance company? Get a Travelers Insurance quote here?

Travelers or Travellers – The History Behind the Two Spellings

The word “traveler” has been used in the English language since the 14th century. It comes from the Old French word “travaillour,” which means “one who works hard.” The word “traveller,” on the other hand, is a more recent addition to the English language and was first recorded in the 1590s. It comes from the Middle English word “travaillen,” which means “to toil or labor.”

Travelers vs. Travellers – the two spellings have coexisted in the English language for centuries, with each spelling being used interchangeably in different regions of the world. However, the spelling “traveller” is more commonly used in British English, while “traveler” is more commonly used in American English.

Regional Preferences – Where Each Spelling is More Commonly Used

As mentioned earlier, “traveler” and “traveller” are used interchangeably in many regions of the world. However, there are some regions where one spelling is more commonly used than the other.

In American English, “traveler” is the preferred spelling. This is the case in Canada as well. In Australia and New Zealand, “traveller” is the preferred spelling. In the United Kingdom and other parts of the Commonwealth, “traveller” is the more commonly used spelling.

It’s worth noting that even within these regions, there can be variations in spelling depending on the context. For example, in British English, “traveler” is used when referring to modes of transportation, such as “train traveler” or “air traveler.” Click here for the dictionary.

American English vs. British English – How They Differ in Spelling

The differences between American and British English spellings are well-documented, and the spelling of “travelers” vs. “travellers” is no exception. As mentioned earlier, “traveler” is the preferred spelling in American English, while “traveller” is the preferred spelling in British English.

In addition to travelers vs. travellers, there are many other words that are spelled differently in American and British English. For example, “color” is spelled “colour” in British English, and “center” is spelled “centre.” These differences in spelling can sometimes cause confusion, especially when writing for an international audience.

The Impact of Technology on Spelling

The rise of technology and the internet has had a significant impact on the way we spell words. With the advent of spell-checkers and autocorrect, it’s easier than ever to ensure that your spelling is correct.

However, these tools are not foolproof and can sometimes lead to errors. For example, if you’re using a spell-checker that is set to American English, it may automatically change “traveller” to “traveler” without you even realizing it.

It’s always important to double-check your spelling, especially when writing for an international audience. You don’t want to inadvertently use the wrong spelling and alienate your readers.

Travelers or Travellers – Which Spelling Should You Use?

So, which spelling should you use? The answer depends on your audience. If you’re writing for an American audience, “traveler” is the preferred spelling. If you’re writing for a British audience, “traveller” is the preferred spelling.

If you’re writing for an international audience, it’s best to choose one spelling and stick with it throughout your content. This will help to avoid confusion and ensure that your content is consistent.

How to Handle the Spelling When Writing for an International Audience

When writing for an international audience, it’s essential to be mindful of the spelling differences between American and British English. Here are some tips to help you handle the spelling when writing for an international audience:

— Select one spelling and stick with it throughout your content.

— If you’re unsure which spelling to use, do some research on your target audience to determine which spelling is more commonly used.

— If you’re using a spell-checker, make sure it’s set to the correct language.

— Double-check your spelling before publishing your content.

Other Spelling Debates in English Language

The spelling of “traveler” versus “traveller” is just one example of the many spelling debates in the English language. Here are some other examples:

— “Program” versus “programme”

— “Theater” versus “theatre”

— “Color” versus “colour”

— “Center” versus “centre”

These spelling differences can be confusing, but it’s important to remember that both spellings are technically correct. The key is to choose one spelling and stick with it throughout your content.

Travelers or Travellers Fun Facts and Trivia

— The word “traveler” is the preferred spelling in the United States, but it’s also used in British English when referring to modes of transportation, such as “train traveler” or “air traveler.”

— The word “traveller” is the preferred spelling in the United Kingdom and other parts of the Commonwealth, but it’s also used in American English, especially in formal writing.

— The spelling of “traveler” versus “traveller” is just one example of the many spelling differences between American and British English.

— The rise of technology and the internet has made it easier than ever to ensure that your spelling is correct, but it’s significant to double-check your spelling, especially when writing for an international audience.

Conclusion – The Verdict on Which Spelling to Use

So, which spelling should you use – “traveler” or “traveller”? The answer depends on your audience. If you’re writing for an American audience, “traveler” is the preferred spelling. If you’re writing for a British audience, “traveller” is the preferred spelling.

Ultimately, both spellings are technically correct, and it’s up to you to select which one to use. The key is to be consistent and to double-check your spelling before publishing your content. By following these tips, you can navigate the great spelling debate of “traveler” versus “traveller” with confidence and ease. Click here for a Travelers Insurance review.

Definition of 'traveller'

traveller in British English

Traveller in american english, examples of 'traveller' in a sentence traveller, cobuild collocations traveller, trends of traveller.

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More From Forbes

Hit and run tourism: what does it mean to ‘visit’ a country.

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Mount Everest, Nepal which is suffering from overtourism—400 people have been to every ... [+] country/territory in the world

Hit and run tourism is everywhere on the news, with people bemoaning the bad behaviour of tourists converging on one picture or sculpture before rushing onto the next, or taking selfies in inappropriate locations and then moving on, leaving behind mounds of litter and noise. What's clear is that there are ways that tourists can be motivated to change their behavior and some traveler groups are trying to create consensus around what it actually means to visit a country.

More People Are Visiting Every Country In The World

There's a small group of people who have visited every country in the world—about 400 or so, as reported by CNN . In 2023, though, 50 people joined this group, more than ever before, and they can all say they have been to all 195 UN-recognized countries and territories.

There are more organizations welcoming these travelers too. The Travelers Century Club was the first to launch in 1954—its members need to have visited 100 or more countries and territories. Now there are also two others, Nomad Mania and Most Traveled People.

Most people in these clubs don't suddenly decide to travel to every country in the world. Many, such as Rauli Virtanen who is believed to be the first person to have traveled to every country in the world, are already incredibly well traveled before they decide to make it a mission.

Many, as Virtanen acknowledges, can only travel the world because they are fortunate to have the right passports coupled with enough wealth (or jobs that pay for travel expenses).

Travel, however, has always been a competitive sport—whether that be Ernest Shackleton getting to the Antarctic, Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay climbing Mount Everest or Amelia Earhart crossing the Atlantic. Today's equivalent is probably to visit every country. Ugandan-American travel influencer Jessica Nabongo became the first Black woman to document her travels to every country in 2019 and Gunnar Garfors is the first person to visit every country in the world twice.

New iOS 18 AI Security Move Changes The Game For All iPhone Users

Google issues critical chrome update for all windows users, world war i tactics make a comeback as a ukrainian gunner in the back of a propeller plane shoots down a russian drone, more and more people are complaining of 'hit and run' tourism.

Now that visitor numbers are springing back to pre-pandemic levels, some of the old travel nuisances have also returned. Gion district in Kyoto, Japan, is reporting that tourists are causing a nuisance when trying to take photographs of the women Geishas and that while on-the-spot fines exist, they are unenforceable.

Milan's mayor wants to ban gelato and alcohol sales after midnight to preserve the city's tranquility and Japanese authorities are to build a big wall blocking the view of Mount Fuji from a gas station because of badly-behaved tourists stopping for a selfie and leaving litter everywhere.

The same kind of tourism is happening because of Netflix's Emily in Paris. The show portrays a side of Paris that critics say is stereotypical, and simply untrue (could 'Emily' afford the apartment she has on her salary?) but more insidiously for critics, it has encouraged a form of Parisian tourism that is only interested in a form of collection, identical to the character. The photo eating the same pain au chocolat in the same boulangerie. Tick. The photo drinking the same chocolat chaud in the same 18th century tearoom. Check. For some travelers, the only way to live an experience is by taking a picture and then posting it.

So, What Does It Really Mean To Travel To A Country?

So maybe the real question is, what does it mean to 'visit' a country? Is it spending time there, even if we never speak a word of the language? Never speak to a local? Nomad Mania members suggest that 'a visit' should normally constitute things such as passing through immigration, staying a night, and traveling in a moving vehicle.

The Director of the Galleria dell’Accademia in Florence, best known for housing Michelangelo’s David, notes that there are also different ways that people can be encouraged to pass through some of the world's most famous—and most Instagrammable—locations. Writing in The Guardian , Cecilie Hollberg suggests several things that have worked to reduce such 'hit and run' tourism in her museum—holding exhibitions in winter, extending opening hours, getting the local residents involved, changing signage and museum trajectories so that visitors don't all head straight for selfies with David, as well as reducing the numbers in tour groups.

In the age of the climate crisis, it might also depend on how we travel. Torbjørn “Thor” Pedersen set off from Denmark in 2013 to visit every country without flying and he finally arrived in his final country, the Maldives, in May 2023 after 9 years and 203 countries/territories and returned to Denmark by ship. Some travel challenges it seems can be slow burn and meet current Instagram trends.

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What is Arbor Day and why is it important?

The US-based Arbor Day Foundation has helped grow 500 million trees in the past 50 years. Image:  Unsplash/Johann Siemens

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Stay up to date:, one trillion trees.

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This article was originally published on 28 April 2023 and was republished on 24 April 2024.

• Arbor Day is an annual celebration of tree planting and is a national holiday in the US.
• The US-based Arbor Day Foundation has helped grow 500 million trees in the past 50 years.
• Trees can help mitigate global warming and promote health and well-being in urban areas, provided they are planted in suitable world regions.
• The World Economic Forum's 1t.org platform is part of a global movement to grow and restore a trillion trees by the end of the decade.

At the last count, there were more than three trillion trees in the world . A major study back in 2015 by a Yale University-led team of international researchers said this was around seven times more than had previously been estimated.

What’s been described by Yale as “the most comprehensive assessment of tree populations ever produced” also said that human activity such as deforestation and land-use change was causing 15 billion trees to be lost each year. It estimated that the number of trees in the world had almost halved since the beginning of human civilization.

Trees are vital to the health of the planet and its people

Trees play a vital role in regulating climate and weather patterns by absorbing vast amounts of carbon dioxide (CO2). The United Nations (UN) estimates that forests contain around 50% more carbon than is present in the atmosphere .

When trees are cut down and forests are destroyed, the carbon they contain is released. This is a major contributor to global warming and the climate crisis. Deforestation accounts for more than 20% of global CO2 emissions, according to the UN.

And trees bring many other benefits, from helping to provide food security and protecting livelihoods, to promoting health and well-being.

A word of warning on planting trees

Planting trees may not always benefit the planet, according to a new study published in Nature Communications .

As well as sequestering carbon dioxide, a tree's dark leaves absorb heat from sunlight. When planted in snowy or desert areas – with light-reflecting surfaces such as snow or sand – tree leaves absorb more sunlight than their surroundings, which could contribute to the warming effect.

As part of the study, scientists mapped the planet's climate-positive and climate-negative regions for tree planting. They found that trees planted in arid, desert regions or snow-covered Arctic regions would, on balance, worsen global warming.

In figure a above, the orange zones show where planting trees could have a net negative climate impact, while the blue areas show climate-positive regions. A similar picture is revealed by figure b , which shows purple areas where changes in albedo (heat absorbed through tree leaves) is greater than the maximum level of carbon dioxide stored.

The positive news, however, is that most planting projects currently in operation or at the planning stage are concentrated in regions where they can help combat the climate crisis.

What is Arbor Day?

Around the world observances of the importance of growing trees have been taking place for centuries, with the first documented celebration of trees taking place in Spain way back in 1594.

A tree planting celebration known as ‘Arbor Day’ first took place in the United States almost 300 years later. In 1872, an estimated one million trees were planted in Nebraska on its first Arbor Day . More than 45 states and territories were celebrating Arbor Day each year by 1920.

Forest restoration initiatives have spread around the world, such as Kenya's Green Belt Movement , which was founded in 1977 by Nobel Peace Prize Laureate Professor Wangari Maathai.

Today Arbor Day is a national holiday in all US states. It usually takes place on the last Friday in April, but can vary to coincide with the best planting weather in different areas of the country.

500 million trees milestone

The Arbor Day Foundation is a nonprofit organization using reforestation and urban forestry to solve issues of climate change, community, and biodiversity. Our organization celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2022, and has helped plant around 500 million trees in 50 countries in that time.

Last year, our organization announced an ambitious target of growing the same number again in just five years. We will focus on areas both in the US and abroad that have the greatest need and will benefit most from new trees.

Trees are helping to solve some of the most pressing issues people and the planet face today — and the world need trees now more than ever. Our goal to grow 500 million trees is ambitious in scale, but the real impact of this work comes with the focus of where these trees will be grown.

Our Foundation uses powerful data-gathering tools to target areas and neighbourhoods of greatest need. These can highlight the communities that are most nature-deprived and also experience other socioeconomic disadvantages.

Research has shown that trees can cool towns and cities by up to 10 degrees. This helps to mitigate extreme heat which kills more Americans than all other natural disasters combined each year. It also disproportionately affects underserved communities.

This isn't the only health issue trees can help with - neighbourhoods with more trees tend to have lower childhood asthma rates. And there's a mental health benefit too - the more connected people feel nature, the greater their sense of well-being.

Biodiversity loss and climate change are occurring at unprecedented rates, threatening humanity’s very survival. Nature is in crisis, but there is hope. Investing in nature can not only increase our resilience to socioeconomic and environmental shocks, but it can help societies thrive.

There is strong recognition within the Forum that the future must be net-zero and nature-positive. The Nature Action Agenda initiative, within the Centre for Nature and Climate , is an inclusive, multistakeholder movement catalysing economic action to halt biodiversity loss by 2030.

The Nature Action Agenda is enabling business and policy action by:

Building a knowledge base to make a compelling economic and business case for safeguarding nature, showcasing solutions and bolstering research through the publication of the New Nature Economy Reports and impactful communications.

Catalysing leadership for nature-positive transitions through multi-stakeholder communities such as Champions for Nature that takes a leading role in shaping the net-zero, nature-positive agenda on the global stage.

Scaling up solutions in priority socio-economic systems through BiodiverCities by 2030 , turning cities into engines of nature-positive development; Financing for Nature , unlocking financial resources through innovative mechanisms such as high-integrity Biodiversity Credits Market ; and Sector Transitions to Nature Positive , accelerating sector-specific priority actions to reduce impacts and unlock opportunities.

Supporting an enabling environment by ensuring implementation of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework and mobilizing business voices calling for ambitious policy actions in collaboration with Business for Nature .

The trillion trees challenge

1t.org is a global platform to mobilize, connect and empower the global reforestation community to conserve, restore and grow a trillion trees by 2030. It is part of the World Economic Forum’s drive to accelerate nature-based solutions and was set up to support the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration.

The platform's US Stakeholder Council, of which I am a member, is a community of US-based public and private sector organizations. It ensures operations and technical support equitably meet the needs of all the 1t.org US Chapter stakeholders.

Each year, American forests and forest products capture and store around 15% of US CO2 emissions from fossil fuel combustion. But we could capture almost twice that amount if we grow more trees in a responsible way and manage our existing forests better, research suggests.

And there's growing consensus among Americans that this is the right thing to do.

A new Harris Poll survey, commissioned by the Arbor Day Foundation, also showed that 94% of people believe trees are good for the planet, 88% agreed that now is a critical time to be replanting our nation’s forests and 91% agree that trees help fight climate change.

For us, that signals people really do understand the power of trees, and realise that they provide a solution to some of the world’s greatest challenges.

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Meaning of traveller in English

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• The modern traveller can go where he likes .
• She is a seasoned traveller.
• Out in the desert the traveller is a welcome guest .
• Travellers can break their journey in Singapore if they wish .
• daily passenger
• day-tripper
• grief tourist
• super-commuter

You can also find related words, phrases, and synonyms in the topics:

traveller | Business English

Examples of traveller, translations of traveller.

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