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Bogie Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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bogie

[ˈboʊɡi ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

transportation

A bogie refers to a wheeled structure that carries a vehicle, typically found under trains and railcars. It consists of a framework that supports the wheels and axles and allows for the vehicle to maneuver or pivot.

Synonyms

chassis, truck, wheelbase.

Examples of usage

  • The train's bogies ensured a smooth ride over the tracks.
  • Each railcar was fitted with two bogies for better stability.
  • The engineers inspected the bogies for any signs of wear and tear.
Context #2 | Noun

slang

In British slang, 'bogie' can refer to a booby trap or something that is unpleasant or undesirable. It is also used to describe the act of falling short or losing.

Synonyms

blunder, fail.

Examples of usage

  • He made a bogie on the last hole, which cost him the match.
  • That was a bogie trip; nothing went according to plan.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Transportation

  • In rail transport, a bogie helps distribute weight and allows the train to navigate curves smoothly.
  • Bogie systems have greatly improved train stability and speed, proving essential as trains became faster.

Pop Culture

  • The term appears in various movies and stories, often used to describe either a spooky character or a thrilling adventure.
  • It's used in the film industry in slang, relating to a 'bogey' as a film that is unsuccessful or poorly received.

Sports

  • In golf, a 'bogey' refers to a score that is one stroke over par on a hole.
  • Players often aim to achieve a score better than bogey, making it a common term in competitive golf.

Science

  • In aerodynamics, a bogie is also associated with the mechanism used to support the landing gear of an aircraft.
  • The use of bogies in high-speed trains has been a significant advancement in reducing friction and wear.

Origin of 'bogie'

Main points about word origin

  • The term originated from the 19th century, deriving from the concept of a small horse drawn vehicle.
  • In British slang, 'bogie' refers to a ghost or a scary creature, adding a playful twist to the term.

The word 'bogie' has its roots in the early 19th century, derived from the term 'bogey', which originally referred to a playful ghost or a mischievous spirit that would scare children. As rail transport developed, the term began to be applied to the wheeled frameworks under railway vehicles, likely because the bogie structure allowed smooth movement, reminiscent of the ghost's elusive nature. The British English influence solidified its common use in the railway context. Meanwhile, in sports and general slang, 'bogie' evolved to denote mistakes or failures, possibly influenced by the early sense of frustration associated with the ghostly bogeyman. This duality of meanings has made 'bogie' a versatile term in modern English.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #26,971, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.