walker

Walker is a term with multiple meanings in everyday English and in specific fields. As a generic noun, a walker refers to any person who walks on foot.

In medicine and rehabilitation, a walker is a mobility aid that provides support for standing and walking. It typically consists of a frame with four legs and handgrips. Some walkers are rigid; others have wheels (rollators) to ease forward movement, and many models offer folding mechanisms, baskets, or seating. Proper use includes adjusting the height so the elbows are slightly bent, positioning the frame in front of the body, and applying brakes or wheel locks when appropriate to prevent unintentional movement. Users should maintain an upright posture and avoid leaning heavily on the frame. Walkers are commonly prescribed after surgery or injury, or for conditions that affect balance or leg strength, and they are chosen based on stability, terrain, and daily activity.

As a surname and given name, Walker is common in English-speaking countries and appears in many biographical and cultural contexts. It is also used as a geographic name for towns, counties, and natural features in several regions, reflecting local history. The term is further encountered in branding and media, where it can evoke movement, travel, or accessibility.