Pronunciation: [dˈɒd͡ʒəm] (IPA) 
The word "dodgem" refers to a type of amusement ride in which cars bounce off each other while navigating a track. It’s commonly misspelled as "dodge ‘em" due to its pronunciation. The correct spelling reflects the word’s origin, which is rooted in the phrase "dodge them" and shortened to create "dodgem". In IPA phonetic transcription, it is spelled as /ˈdɒdʒəm/, with the stress on the first syllable.
Dodgem, also known as bumper cars, refers to a popular amusement park ride that involves small electric cars designed for crashing into one another. The term "dodgem" originated from the phrase "dodge them" due to the vehicle's primary objective of avoiding collisions. Typically, dodgem cars are in the form of a small, box-shaped vehicle equipped with a rubber bumpers surrounding the car body, allowing riders to intentionally collide with other participants without causing harm or damage. These cars run on a flat surface or track enclosed within an enclosure to ensure safety.
To operate a dodgem car, riders must use a steering wheel or handle to control the direction and speed of their vehicle. This amusement ride derives its thrill from the unpredictable and bumpy collisions among participants, aiming to bump into their opponents smartly while attempting to evade being hit themselves. Dodgem rides are generally enjoyed in amusement parks, fairgrounds, and carnivals, offering an exhilarating experience for participants of various ages.
Dodgems provide an exciting and interactive attraction that enhances social engagement as participants compete and strategize their moves within the designated area. This ride concept encourages skill development, coordination, and decision-making abilities. Additionally, it offers a safe outlet for people to experience the thrill of controlled collisions in a controlled environment, generating laughter and enjoyment for the riders. Whether it be children, teenagers, or adults, dodgem rides are beloved by many as an entertaining pastime and a staple feature in amusement park entertainment.
The word "dodgem" is derived from the verb "dodge", which refers to avoiding something quickly or skillfully. The Dodgem or Dodgems is the name of an amusement park ride that features small electrically powered cars that can be driven around an enclosed area. The term "dodgem" was first used in the early 20th century, specifically around the 1920s, when the ride was first introduced. The name aptly represents the nature of the attraction, where participants try to avoid collisions with other cars by skillfully maneuvering and "dodging" them.
