Carriage

Definition

Carriage refers to a vehicle, typically horse-drawn, used for transporting people. In modern contexts, it can also refer to a train compartment or the manner in which a person carries themselves, including posture and demeanor.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈkærɪdʒ/
• Respelling: KAR-ij

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈkærɪdʒ/
• Respelling: KAR-ij

Etymology

The word "carriage" originates from the Old Northern French word "carriage," meaning "to carry." The root word is from the Old French "carier," meaning "to transport in a vehicle," which is derived from Latin "carrus," meaning "wheeled vehicle." It first entered English in the 14th century, mainly referring to horse-drawn vehicles.

Derivatives

• Carry (verb)
• Carriageway (noun)
• Carried (verb)
• Carrier (noun)
• Carrying (verb)

Synonyms

• Coach
• Chariot
• Compartment

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The noun "carriage" is frequently used to describe horse-drawn vehicles, especially in historical or ceremonial contexts, as in "The royal family arrived in a horse-drawn carriage." In modern usage, it also refers to passenger compartments in trains, such as "We booked a seat in the first-class carriage." Additionally, it is used metaphorically to describe how a person carries themselves, for example, "Her graceful carriage impressed everyone at the event."

Related Terms

• Cart: A simple vehicle, typically two-wheeled, used for transporting goods or people.
• Chariot: A two-wheeled vehicle used in ancient times for war or racing, typically drawn by horses.
• Posture: The way in which someone holds their body when standing or sitting, often used in the context of carriage.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A vehicle for transporting people, typically horse-drawn: Describes a wheeled conveyance used in historical and ceremonial contexts.
  • Example: "The bride arrived in a beautiful, antique carriage."
• A train compartment for passengers: Refers to sections or units of a train designated for passengers or cargo.
  • Example: "We were seated in the last carriage of the train."
• A person's manner of carrying themselves: Refers to an individual's posture or bearing.
  • Example: "Her confident carriage made her stand out in the crowd."