Definition

Noun: A procession or line of vehicles, typically automobiles, traveling together, often for a ceremonial purpose or to escort an important person.

Usage

The word "motorcade" specifically refers to a group of motor vehicles moving in a formal procession. It is most commonly used to describe the official convoy transporting a head of state, dignitary, or VIP, which is often accompanied by security vehicles. It implies an organized, purposeful movement rather than just a random group of cars.

Examples

• The presidential motorcade moved swiftly through the city streets.
• A long motorcade of black cars arrived at the embassy for the ceremony.
• Security was tight as the diplomat's motorcade approached the airport.

Advanced Usage

• "to form a motorcade": to organize vehicles into a formal procession.
  • The police formed a motorcade to escort the visiting prime minister from the airport.
• "to be part of a motorcade": to be one of the vehicles in the procession.
  • The press van was part of the official motorcade.

Variants and Related Words

• Cavalcade (n): A formal procession of people walking, on horseback, or riding in vehicles. (This is a broader term that can include motorcades but is not limited to motor vehicles.)
• Convoy (n): A group of vehicles or ships traveling together, typically for mutual support or protection. (This is a more general term and is often used in military or commercial contexts.)

Synonyms

• Procession (of vehicles)
• Convoy
• Fleet (in a specific, formal context)

Related Phrases

• Motorcade route: The planned path or streets through which the motorcade will travel.
  • Spectators lined the motorcade route to catch a glimpse of the leader.
• Lead car in the motorcade: The first vehicle in the procession, often a security or police vehicle.
  • The lead car in the motorcade cleared the path for the others.

Noun

1. a procession of people traveling in motor cars