carpool
KAR-pool
/ˈkɑːrˌpuːl/
An arrangement between people to make a regular journey together in a single car, sharing costs and driving.
Emphasizes resource-sharing, eco-friendly commuting, and reduced traffic.
The story behind the word. Coined in the United States during World War II when gasoline rationing encouraged citizens to 'pool' their automotive resources and share rides to military industrial work sites.
Word relationships
- rideshare: 'Rideshare' often refers to commercial app services (like Uber/Lyft), while 'carpool' traditional refers to informal shared commuter driving.
- vanpool: 'Vanpool' specifically involves larger passenger vans rather than personal commuter automobiles.
- solo drive: 'Solo drive' means traveling alone in a private motor vehicle.
Commonly confused with
- whirlpool: 'Whirlpool' is a swirling body of water; 'carpool' is sharing a vehicle ride.
Word family
- carpooler (noun): A person who participates in a carpool.
- carpooling (noun): The practice of sharing vehicle trips.
Collocations
- carpool lane
- form a carpool
- carpool driver
- carpool arrangement
Idioms & expressions
- share the ride
Example sentences
- "Several office workers formed a carpool to save money on daily tolls and gasoline." Commuting strategy
- "Vehicles with two or more occupants can use the express carpool lane during peak hours." Highway regulations
Memory hook
POOL your driving efforts into one CAR. Share the car, share the cost.
When not to use
Do not confuse with taking solo private taxis or public transit trains.
Fun facts
- During WWII, the US government promoted carpooling with famous propaganda posters asking: 'When you ride ALONE you ride with Hitler!'.
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