Vicarious
Experiencing or feeling something through another person’s actions or experiences rather than directly oneself; existing by means of someone else’s experiences or perspective.
adjectiveVicarious
Experiencing or feeling something through another person’s actions or experiences rather than directly oneself; existing by means of someone else’s experiences or perspective.
adjectiveImagine This
Picture watching a thrilling cliff jump on a documentary and feeling the rush, wind, and fear as if you were the one leaping.
Sounds Like
vih-KAIR-ee-uhs
Looks Like
vic-AR-ee-ous (looks like 'vicar' + 'ious')
Remember This
Vicarious describes experiences lived through someone else, not firsthand. It is commonly used in everyday talk and in law (vicarious liability).
Other Forms
Connect With
proxy, indirect, secondhand, by proxy
Note
Avoid confusing with similar-sounding words like 'victorious' or 'virtuous.' Also note the distinction between vicarious experience (through others) and direct experience (one’s own).