Trolley: meaning, definitions and examples

As noted, mostly used in British English to describe a wheeled vehicle for carrying items. It can also refer to streetcars in other contexts, but here it is specific to shopping or airports.

• She maneuvered the trolley carefully to avoid hitting any shelves

Typically used in American English, this word also refers to a wheeled vehicle used in supermarkets. It is a general term and can apply to other types of carts used for moving goods.

• She guided the cart through the crowded store

A more specific term commonly used in American English, referring exclusively to the wheeled vehicle used by customers to collect and transport selected items in a supermarket.

• He loaded his shopping cart with groceries for the week

A container made of woven materials, often with a handle, used for carrying smaller quantities of items. It can be used both in supermarkets and for various other purposes like picnics or gatherings.

• He filled the basket with fresh fruits and vegetables

Primarily used in American English to describe an electric vehicle that runs on tracks in the street. It can also refer to a bus-like vehicle that runs on wheels and may not operate strictly on tracks. Sometimes used as a tourist attraction.

• The city offers a vintage trolley tour for visitors.
• We rode the trolley to the local market.

Primarily used in British English and widely in other parts of the world to describe electric vehicles running on tracks in the street. More commonly used outside the US.

• Manchester has one of the most extensive tram networks in the UK.
• We took the tram across the city to avoid the traffic.

Commonly used in American English to describe a rail vehicle that operates on city streets. It's often used interchangeably with 'trolley,' but may have a more historical or specific urban context.

• The streetcar system in San Francisco is famous worldwide.
• They are renovating the old streetcars for a heritage tour.

Refers to a form of urban rail transit typical in modern settings, often somewhat faster and more extensive than traditional streetcars or trams. Used in discussions about urban transportation planning and infrastructure.

• The new light rail system has improved commuting times.
• They are considering expanding the light rail network to the suburbs.