jalopy

[ juh-lop-ee ]

noun

, Informal.

, plural ja·lop·ies.

1. an old, decrepit, or unpretentious automobile.

jalopy

/ dʒəˈlɒpɪ /

noun

1. informal.
   a dilapidated old car

Word History and Origins

Origin of jalopy¹

An Americanism dating back to 1925–30; origin uncertain

Word History and Origins

Origin of jalopy¹

C20: of unknown origin

Example Sentences

So I was like Mr. Magoo driving that jalopy.

From Los Angeles Times

Part of the carnival circuit, the family travels a snowy landscape in their jalopy, killing people along the way seemingly for sport, but also, perhaps, as part of a morbid quest for immortality.

From New York Times

When Richie wants to buy a used jalopy, Howard points to the Nelson boys of “Ozzie and Harriet”: “David and Ricky don’t have a car.”

From New York Times

After all, the whole reason I drive a jalopy manufactured during George W. Bush’s presidency is to have an easier time paying for food.

From Salon

Sometimes the old jalopy needs a complete overhaul, not just another oil change.

From Washington Times