freight
UK: freɪt | US: freɪt
n. goods transported in bulk by ship, aircraft, train, or truck
n. the charge for such transportation
vt. to load or transport goods
The word "freight" originates from Middle Dutch vrecht or vracht, meaning "load" or "cargo," derived from vregen ("to carry"). It entered English via Old French freit in the 15th century, initially referring to cargo transported by ship. The spelling evolved to include the silent -gh-, a common feature in English to preserve historical pronunciation traces. The core idea of "carrying goods" remains central to its modern usage.
The ship was loaded with freight bound for Europe.
The company charges extra for air freight.
They freighted the machinery by rail to save costs.
The freight train passed through the town at midnight.
Rising fuel prices have increased freight rates significantly.