intermodal
Americanadjective
adjective
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(of a transport system) using different modes of conveyance in conjunction, such as ships, aircraft, road vehicles, etc
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(of a container) able to be carried by different modes of conveyance without being unpacked
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psychol denoting an interaction between different senses
Other Word Forms
Etymology
Origin of intermodal
Explanation
Intermodal means using more than one form of transportation, especially to ship goods from one place to another. Intermodal shipment might include both a train and a cargo ship. Intermodal usually describes the overseas shipping industry: goods might be sent in a shipping container that starts on a freight train, is moved to a ship, and is finally loaded onto a truck. For passenger travel, an intermodal trip might involve taking the bus to the train station, then traveling by rail to the airport. Intermodal, coined in the mid-20th century, comes from inter-, "between," and modal, "pertaining to a mode or variety."
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
In the company’s intermodal business, revenue grew 20%, to $1.83 billion, with volume up 8%.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 15, 2026
Their analysis suggests 3.5% volume growth in 2027, including 6% to 7% intermodal volume growth.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Sep. 16, 2026
The intermodal spot rate was well below the $3.05 a mile average spot rate for the most common type of big rigs for the week ending June 13, according to DAT Freight & Analytics.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jun. 22, 2026
Magos of Traffix said intermodal shipping is especially in demand for moving goods across the U.S.-Mexico border as some truck drivers avoid the route for fear of getting swept up in U.S. immigration enforcement.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jun. 22, 2026
“Humble aims to partner with ports, terminal operators, and intermodal shipping companies for initial deployments,” Cohen said.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jun. 21, 2026
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