peripatetic

Peripatetic is an adjective meaning traveling from place to place; itinerant. It is commonly used to describe activities, jobs, or lifestyles that involve regular travel to multiple locations rather than a fixed base. As a noun, a peripatetic refers to a person who travels to provide a service or fulfill duties at different sites. A peripatetic teacher, for example, moves between schools or classrooms to deliver specialized instruction, such as music, art, or language.

Etymology and historical note: the term derives from the Greek peripatētikos, from peri meaning “around” and patein meaning “to walk.” It was adopted in reference to Aristotle and his followers, who were said to discuss philosophy while walking in the Lyceum, giving rise to the name of the Peripatetic School.

Modern usage: in contemporary language, peripatetic often describes professionals whose work requires frequent travel. This includes educators who travel between schools, medical or rehabilitation professionals who visit multiple patients at different locations, and roles such as sales representatives, diplomats, or performers who operate across various venues. The word emphasizes mobility and location-shifting rather than a single, permanent workplace.

See also: itinerant, nomadic, mobile professions. The term should not be confused with a fixed or resident occupation, but rather highlights routine movement as an integral aspect of the role.