minicar

[min-ee-kahr]

noun

1. a very small car, especially a subcompact.

Word History and Origins

Origin of minicar¹

1945–50, in sense “miniature car”; mini- + car ¹

Example Sentences

Automakers had hoped high-tech options would attract younger buyers to minicars, or kei-cars, even as the number of Japanese drivers under 30 has slid nearly 40 percent since 2001.

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“It’s definitely safer than picking up your kids from school on a scooter,” said Mr. Zhao, whose wife relies on a minicar to get around town.

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The family has a refrigerator, electricity and a motorbike to get around, and their children have several toys, including bikes and a battery-powered minicar.

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Forest Ridge hosted its inaugural race, called the “Soaring Eagle Rally,” featuring the minicars decorated in all colors and styles created by sixth-, seventh- and eighth-graders, along with a handful of teachers.

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Nissan took a controlling stake in Mitsubishi Motors last year after that company was caught inflating fuel economy figures for its minicar models, which are also sold under the Nissan brand.

Read more on Seattle Times