all-terrain vehicle

[awl-tuh-reyn]

noun

1. a vehicle with treads, wheels, or both, designed to traverse varied, uneven terrain as well as roads. ATV

Word History and Origins

Origin of all-terrain vehicle¹

First recorded in 1965–70

Example Sentences

A sharp-eyed reporter at the Times of Israel pointed out that one of the settlers at the ceremony, Yinon Levi, had been filmed harassing Palestinians from an all-terrain vehicle.

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The same year, however, he suffered a spinal injury in 2003 after a crash involving an all-terrain vehicle, or ATV.

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It was a rugged all-terrain vehicle intended to withstand gunfire and mine explosions.

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Three Humvees, a type of all-terrain vehicle used in military activities to transport passengers and cargo, were taken.

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The road had been washed away, forcing crews to approach on an all-terrain vehicle.

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When To Use

What is an all-terrain vehicle?

An all-terrain vehicle is a vehicle with specialized treads and/or wheels that allows it to travel on off-road terrain.It is commonly abbreviated as ATV. It’s more common to call it an ATV than an all-terrain vehicle. All-terrain vehicles are designed to travel over rocks, snow, and other difficult terrain. In the U.S., the term typically refers to a vehicle that has four (or at least three) wheels, a straddle seat, and handlebars for steering. They are typically designed for one person, though some can accommodate two riders.The term quad is commonly used to refer to an ATV that has four wheels and is typically used for recreation.Example: You’d need an all-terrain vehicle to cross those rocky paths.