Driver

Definition

Driver is a noun that primarily refers to a person who operates a vehicle, such as a car, truck, or bus. It can also refer to software that enables communication between a computer and hardware, or a force that motivates or directs an action.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈdraɪvər/
• Respelling: DRY-vur

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈdraɪvə/
• Respelling: DRY-vuh

Etymology

The word "driver" originates from the Old English "drifan," meaning "to drive." This evolved through Middle English to signify a person who drives animals, vehicles, or machinery, and later included software that “drives” or controls hardware.

Derivatives

• Driving (verb)
• Drive (noun/verb)
• Drivetrain (noun)
• Overdriver (noun)
• Driverless (adjective)

Synonyms

• Operator
• Chauffeur
• Motorist

Antonyms

• Passenger
• Pedestrian
• None

Usage

The term "driver" is used commonly to refer to a person who controls or operates a vehicle, as in "The driver parked the car." It can also refer to software in computing, as in "Install the driver for the printer."

Related Terms

• Chauffeur: A person employed to drive a private vehicle.
• Conductor: A person who manages passengers, often on public transport.
• Device driver: Software that allows hardware and the operating system to communicate.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A person who operates a vehicle: Refers to someone who drives a car, truck, bus, or other mode of transportation.
  • Example: "The driver checked the rearview mirror before reversing."
• Software that facilitates communication between hardware and the operating system: Used in computing to refer to a program that enables computer hardware to function correctly.
  • Example: "The printer will not work until the appropriate driver is installed."
• A force or factor that motivates action: Can refer to an influence or motivation behind an action, decision, or behavior.
  • Example: "Economic growth was the main driver behind the policy changes."