The term Peripatetic refers most properly to a
philosopher or student of
philosophy of the
Aristotelian school of thought; so called because
Aristotle's habit was to instruct his students while walking around (
peripateo) the groves in
Athens immediately outside his school (
Lyceum).
However, the term can also be applied to anyone of a philosophic bent, provided that they are walking about. So, the next time you feel like wandering aimlessly around the lecture hall, just tell your professor that you're feeling a little Peripatetic today. I'm sure he'll understand.