off-road

American  

[awf-rohd, of-] / ˈɔfˈroʊd, ˈɒf- /

adjective

1. designed, built, or used for traveling off public roads, especially on unpaved roads, trails, beaches, or rough terrain.

   an off-road vehicle.

2. taking place on such roads or terrain.

   off-road racing.

3. used for or suitable to an off-road vehicle.

   off-road tires.

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adverb

1. on a road or terrain other than a public road.

   to travel off-road.

off-road British  

adjective

1. (of a motor vehicle) designed or built for use away from public roads, esp on rough terrain

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Etymology

Origin of off-road

First recorded in 1960–65

Example Sentences

The snowmobile and off-road vehicle manufacturer announced recent tariff policy changes won’t have an impact on 2026 guidance.

From Barron's • Apr. 16, 2026

However, off-road vehicle competitor BRP, doesn’t expect to be immune from levies.

From Barron's • Apr. 16, 2026

“You’re not going to take it off-road, you’re not going to go do anything interesting with it,” he said.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 3, 2026

Even though off-road scramblers have been illegal on public roads since July 2023 in Ireland, the Irish government hopes the new law will bring "additional legal clarity".

From BBC • Apr. 2, 2026

The coach has made this same off-road trek at every away game, just in case we need to find shelter or make a quick getaway.

From "Tangerine" by Edward Bloor