What does motocross mean?
Motocross is a form of off-road motorcycle racing in which riders race over an outdoor course containing hills, jumps, bumps, loose soil, mud, and sharp turns. Unlike road racing, where competitors circle a paved track, motocross riders must continually choose and negotiate changing lines while maintaining control over rough and sometimes slippery surfaces. The discipline developed from early motorcycle cross-country competitions and became a widely followed sport with organized races, championships, specialized motorcycles, protective equipment, and dedicated riders. The word is also used informally for the sport itself, as in a statement that someone competes in motocross. It should not be confused with ordinary trail riding or road motorcycle racing, although the same machines and riding skills may overlap with those activities.
nounA form of motorcycle racing on a course designed with steep hills, jumps, bumps, and other rough terrain. The term may also refer to a motocross event or, informally, to the sport itself.
- The sport or activity of racing motorcycles over rough terrain marked by hills, jumps, turns, and uneven ground.
"The riders navigated the muddy track as motorcycles soared over its steep jumps."
"He has competed in motocross since childhood."
"Motocross riders replace their tires after riding through deep mud."
The plural is uncommon when referring to the sport generally but is used when separate races or events are meant.
"The two motocrosses were held on different sides of the country."
Motocross grew from early motorcycle cross-country races and helped establish the sport of off-road motorcycle riding.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does motocross come from?
Motocross was formed in the early 20th century by combining “motor” with a shortened form of “cross-country,” referring to motorcycle races held over country courses. The first element connects it with “motorcycle,” “motorbike,” and related forms built from the same root. The compound developed alongside the growth of organized off-road motorcycle competition.
How motocross is actually used
Motocross is commonly used as an attributive modifier, as in “motocross bike,” “motocross track,” and “motocross racing.” The sport’s name is normally treated as uncountable when referring to the activity generally, though the plural “motocrosses” is used for separate competitions or events.