Definition

1. Noun:
   • A specialized passenger railroad car equipped with comfortable seating, tables, and a bar or refreshment service, designed as a social space for relaxation and conversation during a journey.

Usage

• The lounge car is typically found on long-distance passenger trains.
• It serves as a communal area distinct from standard seating or sleeping compartments.
• Passengers use the lounge car to socialize, enjoy refreshments, work, or simply relax while viewing the scenery.

Examples

Advanced Usage

• "to retire to the lounge car": to go to the lounge car, often for a change of scenery or activity.
  • He retired to the lounge car to write some postcards.

Variants and Related Words

• Club car (n): Another term for a lounge car, especially in North American usage.
• Observation car (n): A type of lounge car, often at the end of a train, designed with enhanced windows or an open platform for viewing scenery.
• Diner or Dining car (n): A railroad car primarily for serving meals, distinct from a lounge car which focuses on refreshments and relaxation.

Synonyms

• Saloon car (chiefly British)
• Buffet car (when it emphasizes refreshment service)

Related Phrases

• "in the lounge": a common shortened reference when the context is clear.
  • I'll meet you in the lounge after the next stop.

Noun

1. railroad car having a bar and tables and lounge chairs