Lorry: meaning, definitions and examples

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lorry

 

[ˈlɒri ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

transport

A large vehicle designed to transport goods by road, especially one with a flat platform at the back.

Synonyms

haulage vehicle, semi-truck, truck.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
lorry

Commonly used in British English to refer to a large, heavy motor vehicle for transporting goods, especially over long distances.

  • The lorry was loaded with fresh produce for the market.
  • Drivers are required to take regular breaks when operating a lorry.
truck

A general term that can refer to any motor vehicle designed to transport cargo. Common usage in both British and American English.

  • The delivery truck arrived at the warehouse this morning.
  • They hired a truck for the big move next week.
semi-truck

Used predominantly in American English to refer to a truck with a trailer for transporting goods, commonly seen on highways.

  • The semi-truck delivered goods across several states.
  • Truck stops are equipped to provide services for semi-truck drivers.
haulage vehicle

This term is used in formal contexts and industry-specific language for a vehicle designed to haul heavy loads.

  • The company owns a fleet of haulage vehicles for transporting industrial equipment.
  • Special permits are required for operating haulage vehicles on certain roads.

Examples of usage

  • The lorry was loaded with crates of fruit for delivery to the market.
  • The company used lorries to transport construction materials to the site.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'lorry' comes from the British English term 'lorry truck,' which appeared in the late 19th century.
  • It may have its roots in the word 'lurry,' a term used in the 19th century to describe a small, low cart.
  • The American term for a similar vehicle is 'truck,' which has a different origin and usage in English.

Cultural Significance

  • Lorries are integral to logistics and supply chains, making them vital for global trade and local economies.
  • In many countries, lorries are often seen in films and TV shows as symbols of hard work and transport.
  • Different regions have unique types of lorries tailored for specific purposes, such as refrigerated lorries for transporting food.

Engineering

  • Modern lorries often feature advanced technology, such as GPS tracking and fuel-efficient engines to reduce environmental impact.
  • Some lorries are designed for specific tasks, such as cement mixers, which are built to transport and mix concrete on-site.
  • Container lorries have standard-sized containers that can easily be transferred between ships, trucks, and trains.

History

  • The rise of motor lorries in the early 20th century revolutionized transportation, replacing horse-drawn wagons.
  • During World War II, lorries were crucial for transporting troops and supplies, demonstrating their importance in logistics.
  • The design and function of lorries have evolved significantly, from basic flatbed trucks to multi-functional vehicles seen today.

Economics

  • Lorries play a crucial role in the economy by facilitating the transportation of goods across vast distances.
  • The logistics industry, which heavily relies on lorries, is a multi-billion-dollar global sector, affecting many businesses and jobs.
  • Fuel prices and regulations can significantly impact lorry operations, influencing freight costs and supply chain efficiency.

Translations

Translations of the word "lorry" in other languages:

🇵🇹 caminhão

🇮🇳 ट्रक

🇩🇪 Lastwagen

🇮🇩 truk

🇺🇦 вантажівка

🇵🇱 ciężarówka

🇯🇵 トラック

🇫🇷 camion

🇪🇸 camión

🇹🇷 kamyon

🇰🇷 트럭

🇸🇦 شاحنة

🇨🇿 nákladní auto

🇸🇰 nákladné auto

🇨🇳 卡车

🇸🇮 tovornjak

🇮🇸 vörubíll

🇰🇿 жүк көлігі

🇬🇪 სატვირთო მანქანა

🇦🇿 yük maşını

🇲🇽 camión

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #18,481, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.