Stowaway

/ˈstoʊəˌweɪ/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A person who hides aboard a vehicle, such as a ship or aircraft, to travel without paying.

The authorities discovered a stowaway in the cargo hold of the ship.

An individual who clandestinely boards a vehicle with the intent of traveling without permission or fare.

The airplane had to delay its departure due to the presence of a stowaway in the baggage compartment.

A person who takes advantage of a situation to travel free of charge.

The legend of the stowaway became popular among sailors as it highlighted the allure of the open sea.

Derived from stow (to place something somewhere) + away (in a hidden or secret manner).

stowed away

Hidden or concealed, often in a vehicle.

stowaway on a flight

A person traveling secretly on an airplane without a legitimate ticket.

stow

To pack or store away for future use.

away

At a distance from a particular place.

Jumping the ride

He got caught jumping the ride by hiding in the cargo.

Free rider

She wanted to be a free rider and join the cruise without a ticket.