Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/ˈʧeɪsər/

Definitions

• Noun: A person or thing that pursues or follows someone or something in order to catch or achieve it.
• Noun: A drink typically consumed after another drink, often used to reduce the taste or effects of the first drink.
• Noun: An animal or person that hunts or chases game.

Usage Examples

• The chaser was quickly on the tail of the suspect.
• After the shot of whiskey, he ordered a chaser to ease the burn.
• The chaser followed the fox across the field.

Etymology

The word "chaser" comes from the verb "chase," which traces back to Old French "chacier," meaning "to hunt," from the Late Latin "captiare," meaning "to catch." The use of the term "chaser" for a person who pursues someone or something has been in usage since the 16th century. The term for a drink, first recorded in the early 20th century, likely comes from the idea of something following or complementing a stronger drink.

Synonyms

• Pursuer
• Follower
• Hunter
• Tracker
• Seeker

Antonyms

• Fleeing
• Escaper
• Runaway
• Avoider

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

The word "chaser" is generally pronounced the same across English dialects, but slight variations can occur in non-native English-speaking regions, especially when it refers to the drink. For example, in some areas, it might be pronounced with a different intonation or vowel sound.

Historical Usage

In its early usage, "chaser" referred to a person who would follow or pursue game, particularly in hunting. Over time, the term broadened to include anyone who actively pursues or follows something. The use of "chaser" as a term for a drink that follows a stronger one began in the early 20th century, associated with the consumption of alcohol.

Cultural Nuances

In many cultures, the term "chaser" is closely associated with alcohol consumption, where a chaser is a drink taken to ease the strong taste of another drink. In hunting cultures, particularly in early modern Europe, "chasers" were often the individuals who would be tasked with tracking down game or pursuing quarry. The word is also used in competitive contexts, such as in sports or races, where someone pursues a goal or competitor.

More Information

The term "chaser" has a broad range of meanings, depending on the context. As a person who chases, it can refer to someone in pursuit, such as a hunter or a pursuer of goals. The association with alcoholic beverages comes from the idea of chasing a strong drink with something milder to reduce the taste or effect. Over time, "chaser" has evolved into a versatile term used in various fields, from sports to casual conversation, often symbolizing a follow-up or secondary pursuit.