streetcar
UK: ˈstriːtkɑː | US: ˈstriːtkɑːr
n. a vehicle on rails used for public transportation, typically powered by electricity and operating on city streets.
The word "streetcar" is a compound of "street" (from Old English "strǣt," meaning a paved road, derived from Latin "via strata") and "car" (from Old Northern French "carre," meaning a wheeled vehicle, ultimately from Latin "carrus"). The term emerged in the 19th century to describe rail vehicles designed for urban transit, emphasizing their operation on public streets rather than private tracks. The combination reflects the dual nature of the vehicle: a "car" that runs on "streets."
The historic streetcar still operates in downtown New Orleans.
She takes the streetcar to work every morning.
The city plans to expand its streetcar network next year.
A vintage streetcar is on display at the transportation museum.
The streetcar rattled as it turned the corner.