Ford Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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ford

[fɔrd ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

car manufacturer

Ford is an American multinational automaker that was founded by Henry Ford in 1903. It is known for its popular models such as the Ford Mustang and Ford F-150.

Synonyms

Ford Motor Company, automaker, car manufacturer.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
ford	Commonly used as a shorthand reference to the Ford Motor Company. It may refer to the brand itself or its cars specifically. Ford has unveiled its new electric SUV She drives a Ford and loves its reliability
Ford Motor Company	The full name of the multinational automaker based in the United States, often used in formal settings or when referring to the company's corporate entity. Ford Motor Company has been a pioneer in the automotive industry The new line of trucks was announced by the Ford Motor Company
automaker	A company that designs, manufactures, and sells cars. It is commonly used to refer to any company in the car manufacturing industry. Tesla is a leading automaker focused on electric vehicles Major automakers are investing heavily in hybrid technology
car manufacturer	A company that produces cars. This is a more formal or technical term frequently used in business and industry contexts. Toyota is a renowned car manufacturer with a global presence Several car manufacturers are facing supply chain issues

Examples of usage

The Ford Motor Company is one of the largest automakers in the world.
My dream car is a Ford Mustang.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

river crossing

Ford can also refer to a shallow place in a river or stream where one can cross on foot or by vehicle.

Synonyms

crossing, river crossing, shallow.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
ford	A ford is a shallow place in a river or stream where people or vehicles can cross. It is often used in the context of rural areas or historical references. The old ford was used by travelers before the bridge was built We need to find a ford to get across the river
crossing	A crossing is a point at which it is possible to cross a river, road, railroad, or other obstacles. It can be used in various contexts including pedestrian crossings, railroad crossings, and river crossings. We waited at the railroad crossing for the train to pass The pedestrian crossing is just ahead
shallow	Shallow describes something that has little depth. It is not limited to just water bodies but can be used to describe any surface or situation with minimal depth. The children played in the shallow end of the pool We waded through the shallow waters to reach the other side
river crossing	A river crossing refers specifically to the action or place of crossing a river. It can be used in contexts such as travel, adventure, or infrastructure planning. The soldiers planned a river crossing at dawn The new bridge will improve the river crossing for the villagers

Examples of usage

We had to ford the river to reach the other side.
The old bridge was washed away, so we had to find a ford to cross.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Geography

Fords are essential in many regions where bridges are scarce, allowing safe passage across water bodies.
Some famous historical fords served as crucial crossing points for armies in battles or trade routes.
Natural fords can change with seasons, sometimes being dry in summer and flooded in winter, which affects accessibility.

Technology

Automobiles like the Ford Mustang and Ford F-150 are named after the founder of the Ford Motor Company, Henry Ford, with 'ford' in the context of innovative transportation.
The company revolutionized car manufacturing using assembly line techniques in the early 20th century, emphasizing efficient production and accessibility.
Today, the Ford brand remains one of the most recognized names in the automotive industry, illustrating how the term transcended its original meaning.

Culture

The phrase 'to ford a river' often appears in literature and poetry, symbolizing a journey or crossing into new experiences.
In various cultures, crossing a ford might represent overcoming challenges and transitioning to new stages in life.
Legendary tales and myths often feature fords as metaphors for pivotal moments of change or decision.

Science

Ecologists study fords to understand wildlife behavior, as they are often natural crossings for animals.
Water flow and current strength at fords can significantly affect the sediment and ecological health of rivers.
Engineering assessments of fords are crucial in predicting impacts of weather events like floods on travel and local ecosystems.

Origin of 'ford'

Main points about word origin

The term 'ford' comes from Old English 'ford', which means a shallow place in a river where one can cross.
Similar words exist in various languages, including Old Norse and German, indicating a common concept in different cultures.
The word has been used since at least the 11th century, highlighting its long-standing significance in travel.

The word 'Ford' originated from Old English 'ford' meaning a shallow place in a river or stream where one can cross. Over time, the term was also associated with the Ford Motor Company founded by Henry Ford in 1903, which revolutionized the automotive industry. Today, 'Ford' is recognized worldwide as both a car manufacturer and a term for a river crossing.