adventurer

[In Ger. abenteurer; Fr. aventurier; Ital. avventuriere.] 1. Originally : All who belonged to a company of merchants united for the discovery and colonisation of new lands, or for trade with remote parts of the world. The Society of Adventurers arose in Burgundy; it was established by John, Duke of Brabant, in 1248, and, being translated into England, had its constitution and privileges confirmed by various kings, beginning with Edward III., and terminating with Henry VII. The official name which it ultimately bore in this country was the Merchant Adventurers. out. Adventurers upon return; called also Putters Adventurers who lent money before departing on a hazardous journey, stipulating that if they returned alive they should receive their capital back, with heavy interest upon it; while if they died abroad it would become the property of the borrower. [PUTTER OUT.] 2. One who, being conscious that he po e es courage and ability, seeks his fortune in new and perilous enterprises, military, political, or of any other kind, it not being implied that he is a member of any chartered company like that above described. "These contests, however, did not take place till the younger adventurer had attained riches and dignities such that he no longer stood in need of the patronage which had raised him."-Macaulay: Hist . Eng . , ch. xv.