Cycling Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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cycling

[หˆsaษชklษชล‹ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

sport

The activity or sport of riding a bicycle, motorcycle, or similar vehicle.

Synonyms

biking, riding.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
cycling

Best suited for discussions on the sport, exercise, or general mode of transport involving a bicycle.

  • Cycling is a great way to stay fit
  • She enjoys cycling to work every day
biking

More casual term often used in everyday conversations about riding a bicycle for leisure or transportation purposes.

  • He goes biking in the park every weekend
  • They went biking along the river trail
riding

A broader term that can refer to traveling on a bike, horse, or in a vehicle. Context is necessary to determine the mode of transport.

  • She loves riding through the countryside on her bike
  • They enjoyed riding horses on the beach

Examples of usage

  • I enjoy cycling in the countryside on weekends.
  • Cycling is a great way to stay fit and explore new places.
Context #2 | Noun

transport

The use of bicycles for transport, recreation, or exercise.

Synonyms

bicycling, riding.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
cycling

General term for the activity of riding a bicycle, often used in sports or fitness contexts.

  • She enjoys cycling every morning to stay fit
  • The cycling race will take place next Saturday
bicycling

Similar to 'cycling' but emphasizes the use of a bicycle. Often used in casual or recreational contexts.

  • Bicycling to work is a great way to stay healthy
  • The family went bicycling in the park on Sunday
riding

A more general term that can apply to various modes of transportation including bicycles, horses, or motorcycles. For bicycles, it is used in day-to-day language.

  • He spent the afternoon riding his bike around the neighborhood
  • Can you teach me riding a bicycle?

Examples of usage

  • Many people in this city choose cycling as their main mode of transport.
  • Cycling to work is a healthy and eco-friendly choice.
Context #3 | Verb

activity

Riding a bicycle for exercise or leisure.

Synonyms

biking, riding.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
cycling

Used for general or professional contexts related to riding a bicycle, often emphasizing the sport or physical activity involved.

  • She started cycling to improve her fitness.
  • The cycling competition was held in the city center.
biking

Commonly used in casual or informal settings, often referring to riding a bicycle for leisure or everyday transportation.

  • We enjoy biking on weekends.
  • He's biking to work every day now.
riding

A broader term that can refer to riding any form of transportation, such as bicycles, horses, or motorcycles. When used, it typically needs additional context to clarify what is being ridden.

  • She's riding her bike in the park.
  • I love riding my motorcycle during the summer.

Examples of usage

  • I love cycling through the park early in the morning.
  • She prefers cycling to running for cardio workouts.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The first bicycles, called 'velocipedes', appeared in the early 19th century, with some designs made of wood.
  • In 1865, the 'safety bicycle' was invented, featuring two wheels of equal size, which is closer to the bikes we use today.
  • The popularization of cycling in the late 1800s coincided with the women's suffrage movement, providing more freedom to women.

Health and Exercise

  • Cycling can burn over 600 calories per hour, making it an effective workout for weight management.
  • Regular cycling can improve cardiovascular health, strengthen muscles, and enhance joint mobility.
  • Studies show that cycling can boost mental well-being, reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression.

Cultural Significance

  • In some countries, cycling is a primary mode of transportation, influencing urban planning and lifestyle.
  • The Tour de France, one of the most prestigious cycling races, started in 1903 and captures millions of viewers worldwide.
  • Cycling is celebrated in various cultures, with events like bike festivals emphasizing community, fun, and sustainability.

Environmental Impact

  • Biking is an eco-friendly transportation method, reducing pollution and traffic congestion.
  • Many cities implement bike-sharing programs to encourage cycling and promote sustainability.
  • Cycling can decrease oneโ€™s carbon footprint significantly when used instead of motor vehicles.

Technological Innovations

  • Modern bicycles now incorporate advanced materials like carbon fiber, making them lighter and more efficient.
  • GPS and smart technology are increasingly integrated into cycling gear, helping cyclists track their routes and performance.
  • E-bikes (electric bicycles) have surged in popularity, making cycling accessible to a wider range of people, including those with mobility issues.

Origin of 'cycling'

The word 'cycling' originates from the French word 'cyclisme', which in turn comes from the Latin word 'cyclus' meaning circle. The concept of cycling as a sport and mode of transport has evolved over centuries, with the invention of the bicycle in the 19th century revolutionizing the way people travel and exercise.


See also: bicycle, cycle, cycles, cyclic, cyclical, cyclist, recycle, upcycle.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #11,627, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.