motorcade

UK: ˈməʊtəkeɪd | US: ˈmoʊtərkeɪd

Definition

  1. n. a procession of motor vehicles, typically for a ceremonial or official purpose

Structure
motor <engine-powered vehicle>cade <procession>
Etymology

motorcade = motor<engine-powered vehicle> + cade<procession>

  • motor: Derived from Latin motor ("mover"), from movere ("to move"). Refers to machines that produce motion, especially engines.
  • cade: Borrowed from French -cade (as in cavalcade), ultimately from Latin caballus ("horse"). Originally denoted a horseback procession, later extended to vehicles.

Etymology Origin:
Coined in the early 20th century by blending motor with the suffix -cade (inspired by cavalcade). The shift from horses to cars reflects technological progress, retaining the idea of a formal procession.

Examples

  1. The presidential motorcade moved swiftly through the city.

  2. Protesters lined the streets as the motorcade passed by.

  3. A motorcade of vintage cars celebrated the town’s anniversary.

  4. Security was tight around the diplomat’s motorcade.

  5. The wedding motorcade honked joyfully along the route.