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Bobsleigh Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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bobsleigh

[หˆbษ’b.sleษช ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

winter sport

A bobsleigh is a type of sled used in the sport of bobsleighing, where a team of two or four participants navigate a narrow, twisting, downhill track. The sled is designed to be streamlined and minimize air resistance, allowing teams to achieve high speeds during races.

Synonyms

bobsled, sled, toboggan.

Examples of usage

  • The bobsleigh team prepared for the Winter Olympics.
  • He won a medal in the two-man bobsleigh event.
  • They trained on the bobsleigh track every morning.
  • The bobsleigh was specially engineered for optimal performance.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

History

  • The sport originated in the late 19th century in Switzerland, where teams would race on wooden sleds.
  • Bobsleigh became an official Olympic sport in 1924 during the first Winter Olympics held in Chamonix, France.
  • In 1932, it was introduced as a sport for women in the Winter Olympics, showcasing gender inclusion.

Technology

  • Modern bobsleds are made from lightweight materials like fiberglass and aluminum, improving speed and safety.
  • Sleds can reach speeds of up to 90 miles per hour due to aerodynamic designs and the push power of the team at the start.
  • Many teams use advanced data analysis and simulation technology to improve their racing strategies and sled designs.

Pop Culture

  • The 1993 film 'Cool Runnings' popularized bobsleigh, telling the story of the first Jamaican national bobsled team.
  • Bobsleigh has appeared in various video games, showcasing its thrill and excitement, drawing interest from younger audiences.
  • Winter sports enthusiasts often create fan communities around events like the bobsleigh world cup, sharing their excitement.

Geography

  • Bobsleigh tracks are found globally, with famous locations including the Whistler Sliding Centre in Canada and the St. Moritz track in Switzerland.
  • The design of the tracks varies, with some having a natural ice structure and others being artificially refrigerated to ensure the right conditions.
  • Countries with snow-covered mountains and winter sports traditions, like Germany and Canada, excel in bobsleigh competitions.

Psychology

  • Team dynamics in bobsleigh are crucial; trust and communication among team members can significantly impact performance.
  • The sport requires high levels of mental focus, as athletes must make split-second decisions while racing down the track.
  • Studies suggest that participating in teamwork sports like bobsleigh can improve social skills and build resilience among athletes.

Origin of 'bobsleigh'

The term 'bobsleigh' originated in the late 19th century, derived from the word 'bob', which refers to a quick motion forward, and 'sleigh', which is a vehicle of various forms, often on runners, designed to travel over snow and ice. The sport began in Switzerland in the late 1800s, with the first official bobsleigh club formed in 1884. As the sport evolved, international competitions began, and the first bobsleigh event was included in the Olympic Games in 1924. The design of bobsleighs has significantly advanced over the years, focusing on aerodynamics and safety to enhance performance and speed. Today, bobsleighing is a thrilling sport that showcases teamwork and engineering prowess.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #42,178, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.