Pileup: meaning, definitions and examples
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pileup
[ ˈpaɪlˌʌp ]
traffic accident
A pileup is a type of collision involving multiple vehicles, typically occurring on a roadway. These incidents often result from one vehicle hitting another and causing a chain reaction, where additional vehicles become involved. Pileups can be particularly dangerous due to the number of vehicles and unsecured conditions, which can lead to significant injuries or fatalities. They often receive major media coverage, especially if they occur on busy highways.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The snowstorm caused a massive pileup on the interstate.
- Emergency services were deployed to manage the pileup.
- Witnesses reported seeing a pileup with at least ten cars involved.
collection
A pileup can also refer to a large accumulation of items stacked on top of each other. This usage often denotes a disorganized or excessive gathering of objects, ranging from papers to physical goods. In this sense, a pileup can create clutter or a need for organization.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- I have a pileup of papers on my desk that need sorting.
- The garage had a pileup of old boxes and furniture.
- She addressed the pileup of laundry over the weekend.
Translations
Translations of the word "pileup" in other languages:
🇵🇹 acúmulo
🇮🇳 जमा
🇩🇪 Ansammlung
🇮🇩 tumpukan
🇺🇦 накопичення
- купа
- скупчення
🇵🇱 nagromadzenie
🇯🇵 積み重ね
🇫🇷 accumulation
🇪🇸 acumulación
🇹🇷 yığılma
🇰🇷 쌓임
🇸🇦 تراكم
🇨🇿 hromadění
🇸🇰 zhromažďovanie
🇨🇳 堆积
🇸🇮 nabrano
🇮🇸 safn
🇰🇿 жиналу
🇬🇪 გროვი
🇦🇿 yığılma
🇲🇽 acumulación
Etymology
The term 'pileup' originated in the early 20th century, primarily associated with the context of traffic accidents. It combines 'pile', meaning a heap of things stacked together, and 'up', suggesting an accumulation or increase. The first known usage of 'pileup' in the context of traffic accidents dates back to the 1960s, as automobiles became more commonplace and multi-car collisions became a notable concern. The word gained traction in media reports, especially concerning severe accidents that garnered public interest. Over time, 'pileup' expanded to describe various forms of accumulation, including physical objects, ensuring it remains relevant in everyday language. The adaptability of the term showcases the evolving nature of language and how terms can transition from niche usage to common vernacular.