Limousine
LIM-uh-zeen
/ˈlɪməziːn/
A large, luxurious car, often driven by a chauffeur, with a partition separating the driver from the passenger compartment.
Limousines are associated with luxury, special occasions, and often professional transport services.
The story behind the word. The word 'limousine' comes from Limousin, a historical region in central France. The original 'limousine' was a type of hooded cloak worn by shepherds in that region. When early automobiles were developed, some models featured a covered passenger compartment that resembled this traditional cloak, especially with a separate, open driver's seat. The name stuck, evolving to describe the luxury car we know today.
Word relationships
- Limo: Informal abbreviation of 'limousine'.
- Chauffeured car: More general, can be any car with a driver, but often implies luxury.
Collocations
- stretch limousine
- rent a limousine
- private limousine
- limousine service
Example sentences
- "The group of friends arrived at prom in a gleaming white limousine, making a grand entrance." Describing transport for a special event.
- "To celebrate their anniversary, they rented a limousine for a romantic evening out." In a celebratory context.
- "The CEO always traveled to important meetings in a bulletproof limousine." Discussing luxury travel.
Memory hook
A LIMOUSINE is a long, luxurious car that makes you feel like you're in a 'LIM-itless' world of comfort. Limitless comfort car
When not to use
Do not use 'limousine' for a regular car or a taxi.
Fun facts
- Early limousines often had an open driver's compartment, much like the original cloaks had a hood for the wearer but left the face exposed.
- The longest limousine ever built, 'The American Dream,' was over 100 feet long and featured a helipad and a swimming pool.
Related words
Explore more words
compartment, luxurious, chaise longue, chesterfield, train, entourage
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