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Definition of sidecar

sidecar

/ˈsaɪd.kɑːr/
side · car
Plural:sidecars
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sidecar Lexical Profile

sidecar Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A small, one-wheeled vehicle attached to the side of a motorcycle for carrying a passenger.

Example

"The vintage motorcycle was beautifully restored, complete with a matching leather-upholstered sidecar."

2

A classic cocktail traditionally made with cognac, orange liqueur, and lemon juice, often served in a sugar-rimmed glass.

Example

"The bartender expertly shook the sidecar and strained it into a chilled coupe glass."

• Nearby Words

side blotched lizard
side-necked turtle
sidebox
sidecar
sideritis
sidewalk
sidewinder

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the early 20th century (circa 1903) from 'side' + 'car' for the motorcycle attachment; the classic cocktail (circa 1922) was reportedly named after an eccentric army captain who regularly arrived at a Parisian bar in a motorcycle sidecar.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Sidecar. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 16, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/sidecar
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