Meaning & Definition of word "Trolley"

Trolley

/ˈtrɒli/

noun:

  • 1. A flat cart with wheels, often used for carrying goods or luggage.
    • Example: She pushed the trolley loaded with groceries down the aisle.
  • 2. A vehicle that runs on tracks and is used for transporting passengers, especially in a city.
    • Example: We took the trolley downtown to avoid traffic.
  • 3. A small cart with handles that is used for shopping.
    • Example: He filled his shopping trolley with fresh produce at the market.
  • 4. A machine for transporting materials in a factory or warehouse.
    • Example: The workers used a trolley to move heavy boxes across the warehouse.

Etymology

The word 'trolley' likely originates from the 19th-century term 'troll', meaning to roll or to turn over.

Common Phrases and Expressions

shopping trolley:

A wheeled cart used for carrying items while shopping.

trolley bus:

A bus that draws power from dual overhead wires using spring-loaded trolley poles.

trolley car:

Another term for a streetcar or tram that runs on tracks.

Related Words

cart:

A vehicle for transporting goods, often with a flat base and two or four wheels.

tram:

A rail vehicle that runs on tracks in the street, often synonymous with trolley in some contexts.

streetcar:

A tram that runs on tracks along city streets.

Slang Meanings of trolley

Meaning: A childish term for a shopping cart.

Example Sentence: I filled my trolley with snacks for the movie night.

Meaning: Slang for a lighthearted or fun outing.

Example Sentence: We're going for a trolley ride around the park this weekend!