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Definition of trolley

trolley

/ˈtrɑː.li/
trol · ley

Plural:trolleys
•
Past Simple:trolleyed
•
Past Participle:trolleyed
•
Present Participle:trolleying
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trolley Lexical Profile

trolley Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

British A large metal basket or frame on wheels, used for transporting heavy or bulky items such as groceries in a supermarket or luggage at an airport.

Example

"She filled her supermarket trolley with fresh vegetables, bread, and milk before heading to the checkout."


2

North American A passenger vehicle powered by electricity obtained from an overhead cable, typically running on rails laid in a city street.

Example

"We rode the vintage trolley through the historic downtown district to reach the museum."


3

A small table on casters or wheels used for conveying and serving food or drinks.

Example

"The waiter wheeled the dessert trolley over to our table so we could make a selection."

Synonyms
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• verb

1

To transport or convey someone or something using a wheeled cart or trolley.

Example

"The hospital porter trolleyed the patient down the corridor toward the operating theater."

Synonyms
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Word Nuance & Usage

In British and Commonwealth English, a 'trolley' typically refers to a wheeled cart for shopping or luggage, whereas in North American English, it primarily refers to an electric streetcar.

• Rhymes for trolley

Word Origin & Etymology

Early 19th century (originally denoting a low cart): probably from the verb 'troll' meaning 'to roll or trundle' combined with the suffix '-ey'.

Cite this Entry


Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Trolley. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 14, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/trolley
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