Lorry: meaning, definitions and examples
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lorry
[ˈlɒri ]
Definition
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?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
lorry |
Commonly used in British English to refer to a large, heavy motor vehicle for transporting goods, especially over long distances.
|
truck |
A general term that can refer to any motor vehicle designed to transport cargo. Common usage in both British and American English.
|
semi-truck |
Used predominantly in American English to refer to a truck with a trailer for transporting goods, commonly seen on highways.
|
haulage vehicle |
This term is used in formal contexts and industry-specific language for a vehicle designed to haul heavy loads.
|
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.
- ...
- 18478 undergrowth
- 18479 collaborating
- 18480 dm
- 18481 lorry
- 18482 turquoise
- 18483 liquidator
- 18484 grilled
- ...