Pushchair Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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pushchair

[ˈpʊʃˌtʃɛr ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

baby transportation

A pushchair is a small folding chair on wheels, in which a baby or young child can be pushed along.

Synonyms

baby carriage, buggy, stroller.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
pushchair	Commonly in British English, used to refer to a chair on wheels for small children that can be pushed along. Can you grab the pushchair from the car? She walked through the park with the baby in the pushchair.
stroller	Primarily in American English, refers to a pushchair, specifically designed for a baby or young child to sit in, with a folding and lightweight design. They took the stroller to the shopping mall. The stroller folds up easily for storage in the car.
baby carriage	Often used in American English to refer to a wheeled vehicle for transporting a baby, especially one that is more enclosed. The baby carriage was parked beside the bench. She bought a new baby carriage for her newborn.
buggy	Both British and American English, often used informally to refer to a light, small vehicle used for pushing a baby or small child. The beach was crowded with families and buggies. They decided to get a three-wheeled buggy for jogging.

Examples of usage

The mother pushed the baby in the pushchair around the park.
I need to buy a new pushchair for my toddler.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Design Evolution

Pushchairs have evolved from bulky models made of wood to lightweight, foldable designs made from materials like aluminum and plastic.
Many modern pushchairs come equipped with safety features such as harnesses and brakes for added security.
Travel systems combine pushchairs with car seats, allowing for easy transitions between walking and driving.

Pop Culture

Pushchairs frequently appear in movies and television as symbols of family life and parenting challenges.
In fashion, various brands now design pushchairs that not only serve practical purposes but also reflect style and trends.
Famous characters in children’s books and films often use pushchairs to illustrate their adventures with babies or siblings.

Safety Standards

In many countries, pushchairs are subject to strict safety standards to minimize risks during use.
Features like larger wheels enhance stability and ease of movement, especially on uneven surfaces.
Regular inspections are recommended to ensure the pushchair is safe and functional for everyday use.

Parenting Insights

Using a pushchair encourages outdoor activities, which can be beneficial for both the child and the parent’s health.
Some studies suggest that children who spend time in pushchairs have better exposure to their environment, aiding developmental skills.
Parents often view pushchairs as essential tools that facilitate day-to-day activities while caring for young children.

Origin of 'pushchair'

Main points about word origin

The term 'pushchair' is primarily used in British English, while 'stroller' is more common in American English.
The word combines 'push' (to move away) and 'chair' (a seat), indicating its purpose of moving a seated child.
Historically, the first pushchairs were created in the early 18th century, designed for wealthy families.

The term 'pushchair' originated in the United Kingdom in the mid-19th century. Initially, it referred to a small horse-drawn carriage for young children. Over time, the design evolved to the modern pushchairs we know today, which are convenient and portable for parents to transport their infants and toddlers. The word 'pushchair' is a combination of 'push' and 'chair', highlighting its function of being pushed and providing a seat for a child.

See also: push, pushbike, pusher, pushily, pushing, pushover, pushpin, pushy.