motorcycle

noun

mo·​tor·​cy·​cle ˈmō-tər-ˌsī-kəl How to pronounce motorcycle (audio)
: an automotive vehicle with two in-line wheels
motorcycle intransitive verb
motorcyclist noun

Examples of motorcycle in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The Orange County District Attorney's Office said that since the beginning of 2026, three parents have been charged with child endangerment for allowing their children to illegally ride e-motorcycles. Julie Sharp, CBS News, 2 May 2026 In response to Tuesday’s pursuit, the San Diego County Sheriff’s Office issued a statement reminding the public of the difference between e-bikes and electric motorcycles. Clara Harter, Los Angeles Times, 1 May 2026 Harley-Davidson has recalled more than 88,000 motorcycles due to potential oil ejections, which may result in injury. Greta Cross, USA Today, 1 May 2026 Historically, motorcycle crashes decreased in November and December. Bruce Finley, Denver Post, 1 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for motorcycle

Word History

Etymology

motor bicycle

First Known Use

1894, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of motorcycle was in 1894

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Motorcycle.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/motorcycle. Accessed 3 May. 2026.

Kids Definition

motorcycle

noun
mo·​tor·​cy·​cle ˈmōt-ər-ˌsī-kəl How to pronounce motorcycle (audio)
: a motorized vehicle for one or two passengers that has two wheels
motorcycle verb
motorcyclist noun

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