tonneau

[ tuh-noh ]

noun

, plural ton·neaus, ton·neaux [tuh-, nohz].

1. a rear part or compartment of an automobile body, containing seats for passengers.
2. a complete automobile body having such a rear part.
3. a waterproof cover, generally of canvas or vinyl, that can be fastened over the cockpit of a roadster or convertible to protect the interior.

tonneau

/ ˈtɒnəʊ /

noun

1. Also calledtonneau cover
   1. a detachable cover to protect the rear part of an open car when it is not carrying passengers
   2. a similar cover that fits over all the passenger seats, but not the driver's, in an open vehicle
2. rare.
   the part of an open car in which the rear passengers sit

Word History and Origins

Origin of tonneau¹

1900–05; < French: literally, cask; Old French tonel . See tunnel

Word History and Origins

Origin of tonneau¹

C20: from French: special type of vehicle body, from Old French tonnel cask, from tonne tun

Example Sentences

The fleshy woman climbed into the tonneau and held the still shrieking girl.

From Project Gutenberg

There was a crash, and they found themselves in the bottom of the tonneau.

From Project Gutenberg

He was jolted considerably, although no particular damage was done, and got into the tonneau with a wild scramble.

From Project Gutenberg

Thoughtfully he tossed the two bundles of laundry into the tonneau, walked around in front and opened the bonnet.

From Project Gutenberg

Getting into the tonneau, Matt searched for something that would offer a clue to the mystery.

From Project Gutenberg