Sled Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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sled

[slɛd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

winter

A vehicle typically used on snow or ice, consisting of a short runner or runners on which it slides.

Synonyms

sledge, sleigh, toboggan.

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Word Description / Examples
sled

Typically used for describing a small, simple vehicle used for sliding over snow or ice, often by children or for recreational purposes.

  • The kids grabbed their sled and headed to the hill.
  • He used a sled to transport the firewood through the snowy forest.
sleigh

Typically refers to a larger, often ornate vehicle pulled by animals, such as horses or reindeer. Often associated with traditional or festive contexts, like Christmas.

  • They enjoyed a magical sleigh ride through the snowy forest.
  • Santa's sleigh is always depicted as being pulled by reindeer.
toboggan

A long, flat-bottomed sled without runners, typically used for recreational sliding down snowy hills. Often associated with winter sports.

  • They rode the toboggan down the steep hill, screaming with joy.
  • The old wooden toboggan was a family heirloom used for decades in winter fun.
sledge

Often refers to a larger, more robust vehicle, usually without runners, used for transporting goods over snow and ice. In British English, 'sledge' can also mean a small recreational sled.

  • The explorers packed their supplies onto the sledge for the Arctic expedition.
  • In the UK, children are excited to try out their new sledge on the snowy hills.

Examples of usage

  • They went down the hill on a sled.
  • Children enjoy riding a sled in the snow.

Translations

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

Origin of 'sled'

The word 'sled' originated from Middle Dutch 'sleet' or Middle Low German 'slēde'. It has been used in English since the 15th century to refer to a vehicle for sliding on snow or ice.


See also: sleds.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,963, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.