The term "gold miner" refers to a person who engages in the activity of extracting gold from the earth through mining. This can involve various techniques such as placer mining, hard rock mining or by using large scale machinery to remove tons of soil and rocks in search for gold deposits. Gold miners often work in remote locations and face dangerous conditions while pursuing their trade. The phrase is also used figuratively to describe anyone who engages in a difficult task or activity with the hope of achieving success, much like how prospectors seek wealth through finding gold.