garage

UK: ˈɡærɑːʒ | US: ɡəˈrɑːʒ

Definition

  1. n. a building or part of a building where vehicles are kept

  2. n. a commercial establishment where vehicles are repaired or serviced

  3. vt. to put or store (a vehicle) in a garage

Structure
gar <protect/shelter (from Old French "garer") + age<noun suffix (denoting a place or action)>
Etymology

The word "garage" entered English in the early 20th century from French, where "garer" meant "to shelter or protect." The suffix "-age" (from Latin "-aticum") typically forms nouns indicating a place or function. Originally referring to a sheltered space for vehicles, the term expanded to include repair shops as automobiles became widespread. The dual meaning reflects both storage and maintenance roles in modern usage.

Examples

  1. He parked his car in the garage overnight.

  2. The mechanic at the garage fixed the engine quickly.

  3. She decided to garage her motorcycle during the winter.

  4. The apartment building includes an underground garage for residents.

  5. They converted their old garage into a home gym.