Carpooled Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

🚗
Add to dictionary

carpooled

[ˈkɑːrpuːld ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

travel arrangement

Carpooled refers to the act of sharing rides with others, typically in a car, to reduce costs and environmental impact. This is commonly done for commuting to work or school and often involves coordinating with others to pick them up or drop them off along the way.

Synonyms

partner ride, rideshare, sharing a ride.

Examples of usage

  • We decided to carpool to save money on gas.
  • She carpooled with her coworkers to the conference.
  • They often carpool to school on weekdays.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Environmental Benefits

  • Carpooling can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions by decreasing the number of vehicles on the road.
  • A typical carpool can reduce traffic congestion, leading to shorter travel times for everyone.
  • Sharing a ride can save fuel, which is beneficial both for the environment and individual finances.

Cultural Impact

  • In many cities, carpool lanes are designated on highways to encourage ride-sharing, promoting community and collaboration.
  • In countries like Sweden and Canada, various apps and platforms have emerged to facilitate carpooling among residents.
  • Carpooling has inspired social gatherings, turning rides into bonding experiences where friends can converse and enjoy time together.

Technology

  • With the rise of smartphone apps, carpooling has become more accessible by connecting riders with drivers through simple platforms.
  • Some navigation apps now feature carpooling options, optimizing routes to pick up and drop off passengers efficiently.
  • The sharing economy has expanded, with services offering incentives for carpooling to promote sustainable transport.

Health Benefits

  • Riding with friends can reduce stress levels, as social interactions during commutes often boost happiness.
  • Carpooling can contribute to better mental health by fostering relationships, providing support, and reducing isolation.
  • Regular group travel can promote exercise, as many carpoolers choose to bike or walk part of their journeys together.

Origin of 'carpooled'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'carpool' combines 'car' and 'pool', where 'pool' means to share something with others.
  • The concept became popular in the 1970s due to fuel shortages, leading to more people sharing rides.
  • The term 'carpool' was first recorded in America in the early 1970s during an oil crisis.

The term 'carpool' originated in the mid-20th century, derived from the combination of 'car' (from Latin 'carrus', meaning wheel or cart) and 'pool', which has an older usage referring to a shared resource or a collective arrangement. Initially, it referred to sharing a vehicle for travel, promoting efficiency and environmental conservation. With growing awareness of traffic congestion and environmental issues, carpooling became more prevalent, particularly in urban areas where commuting is necessary. The concept encourages social interaction and reduces the number of cars on the road, contributing to less traffic and lower emissions. The word has evolved to encompass various forms of shared transportation, including informal arrangements and organized programs facilitating car-sharing among individuals.