semitrailer

[ sem-i-trey-ler ]

noun

1. Also called semi. a detachable trailer for hauling freight, with wheels at the rear end, the forward end being supported by the rear of a truck tractor when attached. Compare full trailer.
2. tractor-trailer.

semitrailer

/ ˌsɛmɪˈtreɪlə /

noun

1. a type of trailer or articulated lorry that has wheels only at the rear, the front end being supported by the towing vehicle

Word History and Origins

Origin of semitrailer¹

First recorded in 1915–20; semi- + trailer

Example Sentences

The steel mesh fence was ruptured by a huge semitrailer truck turned on its side.

From Project Gutenberg