Definitions for vicariousvaɪˈkɛər i əs, vɪ-

vi•car•i•ousvaɪˈkɛər i əs, vɪ-(adj.)

performed, received, or suffered in place of another.
taking the place of another person or thing.
felt or enjoyed through imagined participation in the experience of others:
a vicarious thrill.
Physiol. noting or pertaining to a situation in which one organ performs part of the functions normally performed by another.
Category: Physiology

1630–40; < L vicārius der. of vic(is) alternation (see vice3)

vi•car′i•ous•ness(n.)

vicarious(adj)
experienced at secondhand
"read about mountain climbing and felt vicarious excitement"
vicarious(adj)
occurring in an abnormal part of the body instead of the usual site involved in that function
"vicarious menstruation"
vicarious(adj)
suffered or done by one person as a substitute for another
"vicarious atonement"

vicarious(Adjective)
Experienced or gained by the loss or to the consequence of another, such as through watching or reading.
People experience vicarious pleasures through watching television.
vicarious(Adjective)
Done on behalf of others
The concept of vicarious atonement, that one person can atone for the sins of another, is found in many religions.

Origin: From vicārius "vicarious, substituted"

Vicarious(u)
of or pertaining to a vicar, substitute, or deputy; deputed; delegated; as, vicarious power or authority
Vicarious(u)
acting of suffering for another; as, a vicarious agent or officer
Vicarious(u)
performed of suffered in the place of another; substituted; as, a vicarious sacrifice; vicarious punishment
Vicarious(u)
acting as a substitute; -- said of abnormal action which replaces a suppressed normal function; as, vicarious hemorrhage replacing menstruation

Citation

"vicarious." Definitions.net. STANDS4 LLC, 2013. Web. 24 May 2013. <http://www.definitions.net/definition/vicarious>.