What is car? How to use in English

Definition & pronunciation of car

carnoun

xe hơi

/kɑː/

Definition & pronunciation of <b>car</b>

Where does the word car come from?

The origin of the word "car" can be traced back to the 14th century. It comes from the Old French word "charrette," which referred to a light, horse-drawn vehicle. Over time, the word evolved to "car" and began to refer to a personal mode of transportation, powered by a motor. The first gasoline-powered automobile was invented by Karl Benz in 1886, and the term "car" started to gain popularity. The word was initially used interchangeably with "autocar," but by the early 20th century, "car" had become the dominant term. Today, the word "car" is widely used in most English-speaking countries, and it's often shortened to "auto" in certain contexts. Despite the evolution of the word, the core meaning of "car" remains the same: a motorized vehicle designed to transport people or goods.

Vocabulary summary car

typenoun

meaningcar; car

exampleto go by car

examplearmoured car: (military) armored vehicle

exampleamphibious car: (military) amphibious vehicle

meaning(US, American meaning) car (train, tram)

examplegoods car: freight car

meaningballoon basket

Example of vocabulary carnamespace

meaning

a road vehicle with an engine and four wheels that can carry a small number of passengers

  • Paula got into the car and drove off.
  • How did you come?’ ‘By car.’
  • Are you going in the car?
  • Her husband was driving the car at the time of the accident.
  • Where can I park the car?
meaning

a separate section of a train

  • Several cars went off the rails.
meaning

a car on a train of a particular type

  • a sleeping/dining car

Comment ()