Semitrailer: meaning, definitions and examples

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semitrailer

 

[ ˈsɛmɪˌtreɪlər ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

vehicle transport

A semitrailer is a type of trailer that is designed to be towed by a truck or tractor unit. Unlike standard trailers, a semitrailer only has wheels at the rear and requires a powered vehicle for its front support. This design allows for greater cargo capacity and more efficient transport. Semitrailers are commonly used in freight transport for hauling goods over long distances. They come in various sizes and configurations to accommodate different types of cargo.

Synonyms

cargo trailer, freight trailer, trailer.

Examples of usage

  • The truck driver loaded the semitrailer with crates of vegetables.
  • A semitrailer can carry heavy machinery across states.
  • He drove a semitrailer for a living, transporting goods for a logistics company.

Translations

Translations of the word "semitrailer" in other languages:

🇵🇹 semirreboque

🇮🇳 सेमीट्रेलर

🇩🇪 Sattelanhänger

🇮🇩 semi trailer

🇺🇦 напівпричіп

🇵🇱 przyczepa siodłowa

🇯🇵 セミトレーラー

🇫🇷 semi-remorque

🇪🇸 semirremolque

🇹🇷 yarı römork

🇰🇷 세미트레일러

🇸🇦 مقطورة نصفية

🇨🇿 přívěs

🇸🇰 polovičný príves

🇨🇳 半挂车

🇸🇮 polpriklopnik

🇮🇸 hálfgerði

🇰🇿 жартылай тіркеме

🇬🇪 ნახევარი ტრაილერი

🇦🇿 yarımqayırma

🇲🇽 semi-remolque

Etymology

The term 'semitrailer' originates from the combination of the prefix 'semi-', signifying half, and 'trailer', which refers to a vehicle that is designed to be towed. The use of 'semi-' denotes that the trailer is not fully independent and relies on a tractor for support at the front end. The development of semitrailers can be traced back to the early 20th century when motor trucks began to replace horse-drawn wagons for commercial transport. The design evolved to maximize cargo space and improve maneuverability, leading to the popularization of the semitrailer configuration in the trucking industry. As the logistics and freight sectors expanded globally, semitrailers became a fundamental part of supply chains, known for their versatility and efficiency.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #30,461 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.