Toboggan

/təˈbɒɡən/

Meaning & Definition

noun
A long, narrow, simple sled, traditionally made of wood, that is used for sliding down snow-covered hills.
The children took their toboggan to the hill and spent the afternoon racing down.
The act of riding on a toboggan.
We had so much fun tobogganing down the slopes at the resort.
verb
To slide down a hill on a toboggan.
They tobogganed all weekend, enjoying the fresh powder.

Etymology

From the Canadian French 'toboggan', which comes from the Algonquin word 'toboggan' meaning 'to pull' or 'to carry'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

go tobogganing:
to participate in the sport of sliding down snow-covered slopes on a toboggan.
toboggan run:
a designated area where toboggans can be used for sliding down hills.

Related Words

Slang Meanings

To go quickly or slide smoothly down a slope.
We tobogganed down the hill right after the snowstorm.
Used as a term for a carefree and fun activity.
We spent the whole afternoon tobogganing and enjoying the winter weather.