Sedan is generally pronounced as /sɪˈdæn/ (sih-dan), with the emphasis on the first syllable. The word originates from the French term "sédan," which means a town in northeast France. The spelling of the word is straightforward, with an "s," followed by an "e" and a "d," ending with an "a" and an "n." Despite its simplicity, many still struggle with the proper pronunciation and spelling of this everyday word. Its meaning has evolved over time from a type of carriage to the now commonly used term for a passenger car.
A sedan is a type of passenger car that typically has four doors and a separate trunk space for storage in the rear. It is one of the most common styles of automobiles on the road today. Sedans are known for their practicality, comfort, and versatility, and are designed to accommodate up to five passengers, including the driver.
One of the distinguishing features of a sedan is its separate enclosed trunk, which is located behind the passenger compartment and offers ample space for luggage and other belongings. Sedans usually have a sloping roofline that extends smoothly from the windshield to the rear end, creating a sleek and aerodynamic look. They are generally designed for smooth and comfortable rides, offering a relatively spacious interior with comfortable seating and amenities such as air conditioning, infotainment systems, and various safety features.
Sedans are typically powered by gasoline or diesel engines, although electric and hybrid options are becoming increasingly popular. They are available in various sizes and classes, ranging from compact sedans to full-size luxury sedans. The diverse choices in sedans cater to different consumer needs, whether it be fuel efficiency, affordability, performance, or luxury. Sedans are widely used for personal transportation, commuting, and family trips due to their practicality, comfort, and ease of driving.
A covered portable chair for carrying a single person, borne on poles in the hands of two men.
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 "sedan" originated from the French term "siedan chair". "Siedan" was derived from the name of the French town, Sedan, where this type of chair was first produced. The sedan chair was a portable enclosed chair with windows and a roof, carried by several people using long poles on their shoulders. These chairs were popular in the 17th and 18th centuries, particularly among nobility and upper-class individuals who used them for transportation. Over time, the term "siedan chair" was shortened to "sedan", and it eventually came to refer to a type of enclosed automobile with separate compartments for the driver and passengers.