In British English, the word "lorry" is spelled with two Rs, while in American English it is spelled with one R. The IPA phonetic transcription for "lorry" is /ˈlɒr.i/, where the accent is on the first syllable "lor." The "o" in "lorry" is pronounced with a short vowel sound /ɒ/, similar to the "o" in "hot" or "not." The final syllable "-ry" is pronounced with a schwa sound /i/, making the word a two-syllable word.
A lorry, also commonly referred to as a truck or a semi-truck in some regions, is a large motor vehicle primarily designed to transport goods and cargo over long distances. It typically consists of a powerful engine, a cab for the driver to operate the vehicle, and a substantial cargo area known as the truck bed or trailer.
Lorries are specifically constructed to carry heavy loads, ranging from construction materials and manufactured goods to perishable items or hazardous materials. They vary in size and weight, with some lorries being more compact and suitable for local deliveries, while others are much larger and designed for long-haul transportation.
The cargo area of the lorry is typically enclosed by walls or covered by a detachable trailer, providing protection to the goods from external elements and potential theft. Loading and unloading of the cargo are facilitated through rear doors, overhead shutters, or hydraulic lift systems.
Lorries are an integral part of the logistics and transportation industry, playing a vital role in the movement of goods between manufacturers, distributors, and retailers. Due to their importance in global trade and commerce, lorries are subject to various regulations and licensing requirements to ensure safe operations and to avoid detrimental impacts on public infrastructure.
In summary, a lorry is a substantial motor vehicle specifically designed to transport heavy goods, featuring a powerful engine, a driver's cabin, and a cargo area for secure transportation over long distances.
• A coal-truck on a railway; a long low waggon without sides.
• A four-wheeled waggon without sides, for the carriage of heavy or bulky goods; a coal-truck.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "lorry" is believed to have derived from the English dialect term "lori" or "lurry", which meant a long, low cart or wagon. "Lori" itself likely originated from the Dutch word "laar", meaning a cart or wagon. Over time, "lorry" came to specifically refer to a motor vehicle designed for transporting goods. The term became prevalent in British English and is still commonly used in the United Kingdom, Ireland, and other Commonwealth countries to refer to trucks or commercial vehicles.