Hitchhiking is a means of transportation that is gained by asking individuals, usually strangers, for a ride in their car or other vehicle. The ride is usually, but not always, free. Nomads have also used hitchhiking as a primary mode of travel for the better part of the last century, and continue to do so today.

Why is hitchhiking illegal?

It's illegal to stand on the side of a major highway and solicit rides, because this is a danger to other drivers on the road. However, standing at the on-ramp entrance before a highway is legal in most states.

What is the meaning of the phrase hitchhiker?

to travel by standing on the side of the road and soliciting rides from passing vehicles.