Trolley Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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trolley
[ˈtrɒli ]
Definitions
supermarket
A shopping cart with wheels used for carrying groceries.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| trolley |
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.
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| cart |
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.
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| shopping cart |
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.
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| basket |
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.
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Examples of usage
- I need to grab a trolley before I start shopping.
- Don't forget to return your trolley after loading your car.
public transportation
A vehicle on rails used for transporting passengers, typically in urban areas.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| trolley |
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.
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| tram |
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.
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| streetcar |
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.
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| light rail |
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.
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Examples of usage
- I took the trolley to downtown for the event.
- The trolley system makes commuting easier in the city.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The term 'trolley' originally referred to a pole that drew power from overhead wires in streetcars and started being used in the mid-19th century.
- Early trolleys were pulled by horses before electric systems transformed public transport in the late 1800s.
- The first electric trolley car service began in Richmond, Virginia, in 1888, ushering in a new era of urban transport.
Technology
- Modern trolleys often utilize renewable energy sources, like solar power, to reduce their environmental footprint.
- The design of trolley systems allows for quick, efficient transport, helping to decrease traffic congestion in cities.
- Some cities have introduced 'smart' trolleys equipped with real-time tracking and communication systems to improve user experience.
Pop Culture
- Trolleys have appeared in many classic films and TV shows, symbolizing urban life; think of the beloved 'Mister Rogers' Neighborhood' with its iconic trolley.
- The use of trolleys often represents nostalgia for older transportation methods, evoking a sense of simpler times in modern storytelling.
- Trolleys are featured in music and literature, from a song about a trolley on the street to stories celebrating city life.
Geography
- Cities like San Francisco are famous for their historic cable car trolleys, a unique form of transport that's also a tourist attraction.
- Trolley systems exist in various cities worldwide, including modern cities like Melbourne, Australia, and tram networks in Europe.
- In many Asian cities, trolleys (often called trams) are an essential part of the public transport system, easing mobility and reducing pollution.
Psychology
- Riding a trolley can evoke feelings of community and connection as people share space and commute together.
- Studies show that using public transport, including trolleys, can increase emotional well-being by reducing stress compared to driving alone.
- The routine of taking a trolley can foster a sense of belonging among commuters, as they recognize familiar faces during their daily travels.
Origin of 'trolley'
The term 'trolley' originated in the early 19th century from the word 'troll,' meaning to move or roll. Initially, it referred to a wheeled cart used for moving heavy loads. Over time, the term evolved to encompass various forms of transportation, such as the streetcar or tram. Today, 'trolley' is commonly used to describe both shopping carts and public transport vehicles.