Definitions of vicarious:

  • adjective:   occurring in an abnormal part of the body instead of the usual site involved in that function
    Example: "Vicarious menstruation"
  • adjective:   experienced at secondhand
    Example: "Read about mountain climbing and felt vicarious excitement"
  • adjective:   suffered or done by one person as a substitute for another
    Example: "Vicarious atonement"