Motorbuses

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. A type of large vehicle designed to carry multiple passengers on roads; commonly used for public transportation in urban and suburban areas; can be powered by an engine or motor rather than horse-drawn means
2. A bus specifically built for transporting groups of people, often featuring seating arrangements for comfort; serves a vital role in transit systems worldwide; uses modern motor technology for efficient travel
3. A form of roadway transport characterized by its capacity to accommodate numerous riders; essential for city commuting and intercity travel; distinguished by its mechanical propulsion rather than traditional forms of transport

Etymology: "Motorbuses" is simply the plural of "motorbus," and the singular is a compound of "motor" and "bus." The "bus" half is itself a clipping: it was shortened from "omnibus," a Latin word meaning "for all," which described vehicles carrying passengers for everyone's use. The "motor" half comes from the Latin "motor," meaning "mover" or "one who moves," which entered English to describe engines that produce motion. Joining the two produced a term for road vehicles powered by an engine rather than horses, distinguishing them from the horse-drawn omnibuses that came before. The plural simply applies that sense to more than one vehicle.

Synonyms: bus, coach