coupé
Definition
- Noun:
- A two-door car with a fixed roof: A "coupé" is a type of automobile with two doors, a fixed roof, and typically a sporty or elegant design, often seating two passengers or having a small rear seat.
- A two-seat horse-drawn carriage: Historically, a "coupé" referred to a closed, two-seat carriage with a driver's seat outside, used for private transport.
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- She bought a sleek, red coupé for her daily commute. (A two-door sports car with a fixed roof.)
- In the 19th century, the wealthy traveled in a coupé through the city streets. (A two-seat horse-drawn carriage.)
Advanced Usage
- "Coupé" in automotive contexts: Often used to describe a car with a sporty profile, such as a "two-door coupé" versus a "four-door sedan." In modern usage, some cars are marketed as "four-door coupés," though this is a stylistic term rather than a strict definition.
- The new model is a coupé with a sloping roofline, giving it a dynamic appearance.
Variants and Related Words
- Coupé (variant spelling): Sometimes spelled "coupe" (without the accent) in American English, though the accent is retained in British English.
- He preferred the American spelling "coupe" for his car.
- Coupé (as a verb): Rarely used; not standard in modern English.
Synonyms
- Two-door car: A car with two doors, often synonymous with coupé, but can include hatchbacks.
- Sports car: A car designed for speed and handling, often a coupé but not always (e.g., convertibles).
Related Idioms
- "Coupé de ville": A historical term for a town car with an open driver's seat and enclosed passenger compartment.
- The vintage "coupé de ville" was a status symbol in the early 1900s.
Notes for Language Learners
- The word "coupé" is borrowed from French (past participle of "couper," meaning "to cut"), referring to the "cut" or shortened design of the carriage or car.
- In modern English, it is primarily used for automobiles; the horse-drawn carriage meaning is historical.