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motorcycle

/ˌmoʊdərˈsaɪkəl/
/ˈmʌʊtəsaɪkəl/
IPA guide

Other forms: motorcycles; motorcycled

A motorcycle is a vehicle with two wheels, an engine, and no pedals. Don't forget to wear a helmet when you jump on your motorcycle!

Like a bicycle, a motorcycle has two wheels, but while you power your bike by pedaling, a motorcycle's motor takes care of that. All you have to do is keep it full of gasoline. Motorcycles don't burn as much fuel as most cars, so they are a major form of transportation in many cities. Unfortunately, they're also much more dangerous. When motorcycles were invented in the 19th century, they were also sometimes called motocycles.

Definitions of motorcycle
  1. noun
    a motor vehicle with two wheels and a strong frame
    synonyms: bike
    see moresee less
    types:
    minibike, motorbike
    small motorcycle with a low frame and small wheels and elevated handlebars
    dirt bike, scrambler, trail bike
    a lightweight motorcycle equipped with rugged tires and suspension; an off-road motorcycle designed for riding cross country or over unpaved ground
    moped
    a motorbike that can be pedaled or driven by a low-powered gasoline engine
    type of:
    automotive vehicle, motor vehicle
    a self-propelled wheeled vehicle that does not run on rails
  2. verb
    ride a motorcycle
    synonyms: cycle, motorbike
    see moresee less
    type of:
    ride
    be carried or travel on or in a vehicle
Pronunciation
US
/ˌmoʊdərˈsaɪkəl/
UK
/ˈmʌʊtəsaɪkəl/
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DISCLAIMER: These example sentences appear in various news sources and books to reflect the usage of the word ‘motorcycle'. Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Vocabulary.com or its editors. Send us feedback
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