pillion
/'piljən/
Definition
Noun: A secondary seat positioned behind the main rider on a vehicle such as a motorcycle, scooter, or historically, a horse. It is designed for a passenger.
Usage
The word "pillion" is used specifically to refer to the seat itself. It is most commonly associated with motorcycles. The phrase "to ride pillion" means to ride as a passenger on such a seat. - She sat on the pillion, holding on tightly as the motorcycle sped off. - The motorbike was fitted with a comfortable pillion for long journeys. - In the past, women would often ride pillion on horseback.
Advanced Usage
- "Pillion passenger": A common compound term specifying the person riding on the pillion seat.
- All pillion passengers are required by law to wear a helmet.
Variants and Related Words
- Pillion pad: A cushioned part or accessory for the pillion seat.
- Pillion footrest/peg: The support for the feet of a pillion passenger.
Synonyms
- Passenger seat (when referring to the rear seat of a motorcycle).
- Rear seat.
Related Phrases
- To ride pillion: This is the standard phrase for the action of being a passenger on a pillion seat. It functions as an adverbial phrase.
- He had never ridden pillion before and found it a bit frightening.
Noun
-
a seat behind the rider of a horse or motorbike etc.
