running board

American  

noun

1. a small ledge, step, or footboard, formerly beneath the doors of an automobile, to assist passengers entering or leaving the car.

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running board British  

noun

1. a footboard along the side of a vehicle, esp an early motorcar

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Etymology

Origin of running board

1810–20, in sense “platform from which a large pole boat is poled,”

Example Sentences

For an instant, standing on the running board of the motorcade car, he entertained the vain hope that maybe it was just a firecracker or a blown tire.

From New York Times • Sep. 9, 2023

In “really urgent” situations, he said other drivers advised him to open the door and stand on the running board to let urine trickle out of the van.

From Seattle Times • Mar. 25, 2021

Reynolds, crooning into the morning light while standing on the running board of his whizzing car, seems to be having the time of his life.

From The New Yorker • Sep. 27, 2018

Standard “assist steps,” basically a long running board on each side, eased entry into the tall Suburban.

From Washington Times • Jul. 29, 2015

Stepping onto the running board and seating myself, I said, “Now, sir you got to get all these dohickies set right or else she ain’t go’n start up.”

From "Cold Sassy Tree" by Olive Ann Burns