What does motorcycle mean?
A motorcycle is a two-wheeled vehicle powered by an engine, typically with a frame, handlebars, seat, and two wheels. The term is standard in American English and is also common in British English, where motorbike is frequently used as an alternative. Motorcycles are used for everyday transportation, touring, recreation, and competitive riding. They are generally smaller and lighter than cars and offer a distinctive combination of speed, maneuverability, and direct engagement with the road. The word is commonly associated with protective equipment such as motorcycle helmets and with activities such as riding, touring, and motorcycling. As a verb, motorcycle means to travel or ride on a motorcycle, although this use is much less common than the noun.
A two-wheeled motor vehicle with an engine, used for transportation or recreation.
"The motorcycle engine made a loud noise as it started."
In British English, motorbike is also very common and may sometimes refer specifically to a smaller motorcycle.
To travel or ride on a motorcycle.
"They motorcycled through the mountains during the summer."
The verb is relatively uncommon and is more often encountered in contexts involving motorcycling as a sport or activity.
The usual plural form is motorcycles; motorbikes is also common, especially in British English.
"Several motorcycles were parked beside the road."
The word “motorcycle” combines the Latin-rooted word “motor” with “cycle,” a word derived from the Greek kyklos, meaning “circle” or “wheel.”
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does motorcycle come from?
Motorcycle is a compound formed in the late 19th century from motor and cycle. Motor comes through French from Latin motor, meaning “mover,” while cycle derives from Greek kyklos, meaning “circle” or “wheel.” The compound initially referred to a lightweight motorized bicycle or similar machine and later became the general term for motorized two-wheeled vehicles.
Related word forms
How motorcycle is actually used
Motorcycle is the standard term in American English and is also widely used in British English. Motorbike is especially common in British English and may refer more narrowly to a smaller or less powerful motorcycle in some contexts.
Easily confused with motorcycle
In British English, motorbike is often used as a general word for a motorcycle, although it can sometimes suggest a smaller or more basic machine; in American English, motorcycle is the usual term.