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Omnibus Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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omnibus

[ˈɒmnɪbəs ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

transportation

An omnibus is a large vehicle designed to carry many passengers. It is often referred to as a bus and is widely used in public transportation systems around the world.

Synonyms

bus, coach, shuttle.

Examples of usage

  • The city implemented a new omnibus route to improve public transport.
  • We took the omnibus to reach the concert venue.
  • The omnibus was crowded during rush hour.
Context #2 | Noun

collection

In a different context, an omnibus can refer to a single book that contains multiple works by an author. It showcases a collection of writings, providing readers with a comprehensive view of the author's work.

Synonyms

anthology, collection, compilation.

Examples of usage

  • I bought the omnibus edition of my favorite author's novels.
  • The library has an omnibus of classic literature.
  • She enjoyed reading the omnibus of short stories.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • In literature, an omnibus edition often combines multiple novels or stories by the same author into one large volume.
  • It's a popular method for publishers to bring together a series of works, making it easier for readers to access an entire collection.

Media

  • In the film and television industry, 'omnibus' can refer to episodes that are grouped together to tell a larger narrative.
  • Certain shows produce special episodes that combine multiple stories, known as omnibus episodes, appealing to fans by providing a comprehensive experience.

Transportation

  • Originally, 'omnibus' referred to a horse-drawn vehicle for public transport, the precursor to modern buses.
  • In France, the first omnibus line started operating in 1828, revolutionizing public transport by allowing anyone to ride for a fee.

Cultural References

  • The term has been adapted in popular culture, with businesses using 'omnibus' to refer to a broad range of products or services.
  • It's also been used in the context of law, where an omnibus bill includes many different laws and topics into one single piece of legislation.

Origin of 'omnibus'

Main points about word origin

  • The term comes from the Latin word 'omnibus,' meaning 'for all' or 'by all,' reflecting its inclusive nature.
  • The word was first used in the early 19th century to describe a type of bus for all passengers, which later influenced its literary meaning.

The term 'omnibus' has its roots in the Latin word 'omnis,' which means 'all' or 'every.' In the early 19th century, the first public horse-drawn omnibuses appeared in Paris, providing shared transportation services. The English word 'omnibus' was adopted as a name for these public transportation vehicles, and it later evolved into the modern conception of a bus. Over time, the term also came to describe collections of various works, aligning with the original Latin meaning by encompassing all of an author's writings in a single publication. The usage of 'omnibus' in this literary context emerged in the late 19th century, further solidifying its dual meanings in both transportation and literature.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,022, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.