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Synonyms

motor vehicle

American  
[moh-ter vee-i-kuhl, vee-hi-] / ˈmoʊ tər ˈvi ɪ kəl, ˈvi hɪ- /

noun

  1. an automobile, truck, bus, or similar motor-driven conveyance.


motor vehicle British  

noun

  1. a road vehicle driven by a motor or engine, esp an internal-combustion engine

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Etymology

Origin of motor vehicle

First recorded in 1885–90

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.

See Examples For:

Haley said prosecutors may ask the the DMV to “re-evaluate” Pelosi’s ability to operate a motor vehicle.

From Los Angeles Times Jul. 18, 2026

“Boy, don’t you know you gotta be 16-years-old to operate a motor vehicle in the Commonwealth of Kentucky?” he asked.

From Salon Jul. 3, 2026

The woman's home and motor vehicle were later searched and police discovered keys to the flat in Meadowside Quay Walk.

From BBC May 22, 2026

Amid this influx, a current ICE officer said, DHS has updated its field training; however, new recruits are given priority for the courses and it is unclear to what extent motor vehicle stops are incorporated.

From The Wall Street Journal Jan. 10, 2026

“Lost kids, lost dogs, a few motor vehicle violations, but no crime.”

From "Drama High" by Michael Sokolove

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