Pronunciation: [kˈahɒt] (IPA) 
The word "cahot" is spelled as "kəʊt" in IPA phonetic transcription. This French loanword is often used in English to describe a jolt or sudden jerk experienced while traveling in a vehicle. It is pronounced with a short "o" sound at the beginning, followed by an "uh" sound and finally a short "o" sound again. Though not widely used, it is a useful word to add to your vocabulary to describe those bumpy car or train rides.
Cahot is a noun that refers to a sudden and jolting motion experienced while traveling over an uneven or rough surface. This term is often used to describe an abrupt jolt or bump felt by passengers in a vehicle or by riders on horseback when encountering an unexpected obstacle or an irregularity in the terrain. The word typically evokes a sense of discomfort or an unpleasant disturbance caused by the sudden change in motion.
The term "cahot" originated from the French language, where it means a bump or jolt. It gained popularity in English during the early 19th century, particularly in the context of horse-drawn carriages or horseback riding on uneven roads. However, it is also applicable to describe similar jolts experienced in automobiles or any mode of transportation.
Cahots can vary in intensity and can cause discomfort, uneasiness, or even lead to injuries if the jolt is severe. The term can also be used metaphorically to describe any sudden or disruptive change or interruption in a process, journey, or experience.
In summary, cahot is a term used to describe an abrupt and jolting motion experienced while traveling over an uneven or rough surface, which can cause discomfort or a sudden disturbance.
The word "cahot" has its origins in the French language. It comes from the Old French word "chaot", which means a sudden jolt or violent shaking. This word can be traced back to the Latin word "captus", meaning seized or captured. Over time, the term "chaot" in Old French evolved into "cahot" with a similar meaning. The term was later adopted into English, particularly in equestrian contexts, to refer to an abrupt jolt or irregular movement experienced by a horse or carriage.
