trolley car

American  

noun

1. a streetcar propelled electrically by current taken by means of a trolley from a conducting wire strung overhead or running beneath a slot between the tracks.

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trolley car British  

noun

1. another word for streetcar

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Etymology

Origin of trolley car

First recorded in 1885–90

Example Sentences

It was used to provide electricity to the growing city, particularly powering the electric trolley car system according to the Seattle City Light website.

From Seattle Times • Jan. 16, 2023

Despite losing a couple of toes when his foot was run over by a trolley car as a kid, Brewer became a promising young pitcher while growing up in Des Moines.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 16, 2022

A green trolley car sat crumpled, a taxi smashed into its side.

From Washington Post • Mar. 14, 2022

He would call people in the party, for instance, "trolley car guys," because they followed a line.

From Salon • Feb. 1, 2022

“I think, um, you just got hit by the trolley car, sir. You’re—” She bit her lip, but then realized there was no point in not telling him the truth.

From "Ophie's Ghosts" by Justina Ireland