The spelling of the phrase "skid marks" is in line with standard English pronunciation. The word "skid" is pronounced /skɪd/ with the "i" making a short "i" sound like in "kid". The word "marks" is pronounced /mɑːks/ with the "a" making a long "a" sound like in "car". When put together, "skid marks" is pronounced /skɪd mɑːks/. This phrase refers to the marks left on a surface by a sliding or skidding object, such as a car or bicycle.
Skid marks are physical evidence left behind by a vehicle's tires when they lose traction or experience a sudden braking or skidding movement. This term typically refers to the dark, sometimes rubbery residue that is left on the surface of a road or pavement, resulting from the friction generated between the tires and the surface during a skid. Skid marks are often seen after accidents, near intersections, or on high-speed roadways.
These marks are created when the tires lock or lose grip, causing the vehicle to slide or skid across the road. Skid marks can vary in length, width, and color depending on factors such as tire composition, vehicle weight, speed, and road conditions. They can range from faint, thin lines to more pronounced, thick marks.
Skid marks serve as valuable evidence for accident investigators, helping them determine crucial details about the accident, including the speed of the vehicle and whether the driver attempted to brake or avoid an obstacle. Experts can analyze skid marks to estimate the speed of the vehicle before the skid occurred.
In addition to accidents, skid marks are also consciously created by professional drivers in motorsports, such as drifting or stunt driving, where controlled skidding maneuvers are executed for entertainment or competitive purposes. These skid marks often form intricate patterns, showcasing the driver's skill in controlling a vehicle in a controlled skid.
The word "skid marks" is a compound noun derived from two separate words: "skid" and "marks".
The word "skid" dates back to the early 17th century and is believed to have originated from the Middle English term "skyd", meaning a contrivance used to prevent the slipping of wheels. It is related to the Old Norse word "skið", which means a stick of timber or a sled used to transport goods. The verb "to skid" emerged around the late 17th century, incorporating the idea of sliding or slipping due to loss of traction.
The term "marks" refers to visible indications or traces left by something. In this context, it implies the tracks or streaks left on the road surface from the wheel of a vehicle when it slides or skids.