Pronunciation: [ˈamfɪkˌɑː] (IPA) 
The word "amphicar" is a blend of the Greek words "amphi" meaning "both" and "kar" meaning "car". Phonetically, it is spelled /ˈæm.fɪ.kɑr/. The emphasized syllable is the second syllable "fi", which is pronounced with the vowel sound /ɪ/. The "ph" cluster in the first syllable is pronounced with the /f/ sound, and the "c" in the final syllable is pronounced with the /k/ sound. All together, "amphicar" is pronounced as "AM-fi-kar".
The Amphicar is a unique and distinctive amphibious vehicle that was manufactured in the 1960s. It is often regarded as one of the first mass-produced civilian amphibious cars. The term "amphicar" is a portmanteau of "amphibious" and "car", which aptly describes this automobile's dual functionality.
The Amphicar is designed to seamlessly transition between land and water, making it suitable for both road and aquatic travel. It is equipped with various features that enable it to traverse both terrains, such as propellers for propulsion in the water and conventional wheels for land-based movement. The vehicle possesses a sleek and streamlined body, resembling a compact car, with two doors and a convertible top.
In terms of performance, the Amphicar typically achieves moderate speeds both on land and water. Its lightweight construction and dependable mechanics allow it to navigate in water bodies, including lakes, rivers, and small bodies of water. On land, the vehicle operates akin to a regular automobile, albeit with some limitations due to its design.
Due to its innovative concept and limited production, the Amphicar holds a certain level of novelty and charm. It has gained popularity among collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate its versatility and retro aesthetics. The Amphicar represents a significant milestone in automotive history, demonstrating the potential for intermodal transportation and showcasing the advancements in vehicle engineering.
The word "amphicar" is a combination of two root words: "amphi" and "car".
1. "Amphi" comes from the Greek word "αμφί" (amphi), which means "both" or "around". It is derived from the prefix "amphi-" that is used to denote something that is capable of two different or opposing actions or modes.
2. "Car" is a shortened form of "carriage", which has its roots in the Latin word "carrus", meaning "wheeled vehicle" or "cart".
By combining these two elements, the word "amphicar" literally means "both car" or "around car". This name is fitting because the amphibious vehicle, known as the Amphicar, was designed to function both on land and in water.
