scooter
UK: ˈskuːtə(r) | US: ˈskuːtər
n. a light two-wheeled vehicle with a small motor or pushed by foot
n. a child's toy consisting of a footboard mounted on two wheels and a handlebar for steering
vi. to ride or travel on a scooter
The word "scooter" derives from the verb "scoot," meaning to move swiftly or glide, which originated in the early 19th century (possibly imitative of rapid motion). The suffix "-er" transforms it into a noun denoting a device or person associated with the action. Initially used for child's push-toys (early 20th century), it later applied to motorized versions. The morphemes reflect the vehicle's function: quick movement ("scoot") + tool/agent ("-er").
She commutes to work on an electric scooter.
The child raced down the sidewalk on his bright red scooter.
Tourists often rent scooters to explore the island.
He lost balance and fell off his scooter.
Scooters are becoming popular as eco-friendly urban transport.