bicycle

American  

[bahy-si-kuhl, -sik-uhl, -sahy-kuhl] / ˈbaɪ sɪ kəl, -ˌsɪk əl, -ˌsaɪ kəl /

noun

1. a vehicle with two wheels in tandem, usually propelled by pedals connected to the rear wheel by a chain, and having handlebars for steering and a saddlelike seat.

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verb (used without object)

bicycled, bicycling

1. to ride a bicycle.

verb (used with object)

bicycled, bicycling

1. to ship or transport directly by bicycle or other means.

bicycle British  

/ ˈbaɪsɪkəl /

noun

1. Often shortened to: cycle.   bike.  informal  a vehicle with a tubular metal frame mounted on two spoked wheels, one behind the other. The rider sits on a saddle, propels the vehicle by means of pedals that drive the rear wheel through a chain, and steers with handlebars on the front wheel

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verb

1. (intr) to ride a bicycle; cycle

Other Word Forms

• bicycler noun
• bicyclist noun

Etymology

Origin of bicycle

From French, dating back to 1865–70; bi- ¹, cycle

Example Sentences

Back in August, after the Dutch Grand Prix, Verstappen seemed more likely to trade in his car for a bicycle than to contend for the world championship.

From The Wall Street Journal

But even Josie shakes her head whenever she sees George dressed up in fluorescent cycling gear for his bicycle ride home.

From The Wall Street Journal

If someone already knows how to tune a bicycle, learning to repair a motorcycle can feel more straightforward.

From Science Daily

In recent months they have provided medical assistance, picked up trash, spread mulch, painted fences, and helped elderly locals who fell off their bicycles, according to National Guard officials.

From The Wall Street Journal

At age 59, he rode a bicycle from California to South Carolina.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• bike