What does motorbike mean?
A motorbike is a motorcycle, and the term is especially familiar in British English, where it is often used for a small, sporty, or everyday machine. In American English, “motorcycle” is more usual, although “motorbike” is understood and occasionally used. The word can also function as an informal verb, as in “We motorbiked along the coast,” meaning that the speakers travelled by motorcycle. Its compound structure combines the English word “motor,” associated with mechanical power or engines, with “bike,” an informal word for bicycle or motorcycle. In ordinary use, “motorbike” has a practical, accessible tone rather than the more technical or formal flavour of “motorcycle,” but the distinction is primarily regional and contextual rather than absolute.
A motorcycle, especially a small or lightweight one.
"He bought a second-hand motorbike for the city."
Chiefly British in ordinary usage; “motorcycle” is the more common term in American English and formal writing.
To ride or travel on a motorcycle.
"They motorbiked to the coast last weekend."
Informal and less frequent than “ride a motorcycle.”
The standard plural is “motorbikes.”
"Several motorbikes were parked near the station."
In British English, “motorbike” is the everyday word for what Americans usually call a motorcycle.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does motorbike come from?
“Motorbike” is a compound formed in the early 20th century from “motor” and “bike.” The element “motor” comes through French from Latin, while “bike” is an informal shortening of “bicycle.” The compound became established in British English, where it remains especially common; the alternative “motorcycle” was influenced by the older and more general term.
Related word forms
How motorbike is actually used
“Motorbike” is especially idiomatic in British English. “Motorcycle” is more common in American English and in formal or technical writing. As a verb, “motorbike” is informal and less frequent than “ride a motorcycle.”
Easily confused with motorbike
“Motorbike” is especially common in British English, while “motorcycle” is the more usual general term in American English and in formal contexts.
A moped is a small, lightweight motorcycle designed for economical urban travel, whereas a motorbike is a more general term for a motorcycle.