BASE JUMPER Meaning and
Definition
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A "base jumper" refers to an extreme sports enthusiast who participates in the thrilling and highly risky activity of "base jumping." Base jumping is an adrenaline-fueled sport that involves parachuting or wingsuit flying from fixed structures or natural geographic features, such as buildings, antennas, spans (bridges), and earth forms (cliffs).
A base jumper is typically equipped with a parachute or a wingsuit, which allows them to freefall for a designated distance before deploying their canopy or wings to slow their descent and ensure a safe landing. These jumpers often aim to experience a unique sensation of flight and complete a successful descent in a controlled manner.
Base jumping is considered an exceptionally perilous activity, as it involves jumping from relatively low altitudes, necessitating quick decision-making and precise execution. These jumpers commonly grapple with numerous risks such as encountering unexpected obstacles during descent, wind gusts, canopy malfunctions, or landing in undesirable conditions.
Base jumping demands impeccable technical skills, a deep understanding of aerodynamics and wind patterns, as well as a thorough knowledge of equipment and safety protocols. Base jumpers are passionate daredevils who embrace the thrill of defying gravity and pushing their physical and mental limits. They often prioritize meticulous planning, risk assessment, and extensive training to reduce potential hazards and maximize safety while embracing the extraordinary sensation of base jumping.
Etymology of BASE JUMPER
The word BASE jumper originated from its acronym BASE, which stands for Buildings, Antennas, Spans (bridges), and Earth (cliffs), representing the four types of fixed objects that can be used as jumping-off points for this extreme sport. The term was coined in the late 1970s by Carl Boenish, who was one of the pioneers of BASE jumping. The word jumper is simply used to describe someone who jumps from a height or a platform. Therefore, the etymology of BASE jumper combines the acronym BASE with the common term jumper.
