Tractor trailer Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/ˈtræktər ˈtreɪlər/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

A large, articulated vehicle consisting of a tractor unit and a connected trailer, used for transporting goods over long distances.

Examples

• The company uses a fleet of tractor trailers to transport goods across the country.
• The driver skillfully maneuvered the tractor trailer through the tight mountain roads.

Synonyms

• Semi-trailer
• 18-wheeler

Antonyms

• Small vehicle
• Car

Additional Information

Tractor trailers are commonly used in the logistics and transportation industry to move large quantities of goods over long distances. They are typically operated by professional drivers who require special training and licenses to operate these vehicles.

Tractor trailers come in various sizes and configurations, depending on the type of goods being transported and the terrain they will be driving on. Some tractor trailers are equipped with refrigeration units to transport perishable goods, while others may have specialized equipment for hauling oversized or heavy loads.

Etymology

The term “tractor trailer” originated in the early 20th century, derived from the words “tractor” and “trailer”, referring to the two main components of the vehicle.

Usage Notes

When referring to the vehicle as a whole, the term “tractor trailer” is used. However, when referring specifically to the front unit, the term “tractor” is used, while the rear unit is referred to as the “trailer”.

Cultural References

Tractor trailers have appeared in numerous films and TV shows, often depicted as rugged and powerful vehicles driven by tough, independent drivers.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

• Drive a tractor trailer: to operate a tractor trailer, often used figuratively to describe a challenging task.

Related Words or Phrases

• Semi-truck
• Big rig

Collocations

• Tractor trailer accident
• Tractor trailer driver

Frequency of Use

The term “tractor trailer” is commonly used in the logistics and transportation industry, as well as in everyday conversation to describe large vehicles on the road.

Common Misspellings

• Tractor trailor
• TRACTOR TRAILER