rickshaw

American  

[rik-shaw, -shah] / ˈrɪk ʃɔ, -ʃɑ /

Also rikisha, or ricksha

noun

1. a small, two-wheeled, cartlike passenger vehicle with a fold-down top, pulled by one person, formerly used widely in Japan and China.

2. cycle rickshaw.

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rickshaw British  

/ ˈrɪkʃɔː, ˈrɪkʃə /

noun

1. Also called: jinrikisha.  a small two-wheeled passenger vehicle drawn by one or two men, used in parts of Asia

2. Also called: trishaw.  a similar vehicle with three wheels, propelled by a man pedalling as on a tricycle

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Etymology

Origin of rickshaw

First recorded in 1875–80; by contraction of jinrikisha ( def. )

Example Sentences

"Some of their parents are rickshaw pullers, labourers, or tea vendors... Some cannot afford it and quit football. I feel like quitting too every time I see a girl leaving the game."

From Barron's • Mar. 2, 2026

Jones, dressed as her character Nessa, was seen in a rickshaw on Barry seafront in south Wales, with her co-star Joanna Page, as Stacey, in the back.

From BBC • Sep. 3, 2024

“We will have a beautiful future, God willing,” said Mahmoud Mustafa, a rickshaw driver clutching a plastic food bowl.

From New York Times • Jun. 5, 2024

Satish Kumar, a 57-year-old rickshaw driver in the capital, said his work was suffering because of the heat.

From Seattle Times • May 18, 2024

When at last the boy returned, he said “You can get into the rickshaw now.”

From "Homeless Bird" by Gloria Whelan

Related Words

• truck
• wagon