monocoque

noun

mono·​coque ˈmä-nə-ˌkōk 

-ˌkäk

1

: a type of construction (as of a fuselage) in which the outer skin carries all or a major part of the stresses

2

: a type of vehicle construction (as of an automobile) in which the body is integral with the chassis compare space frame, unibody

Examples of monocoque in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

That engine is based on the 964’s, and the car itself is built on an original 964 monocoque that has been strengthened. —Erik Shilling, Robb Report, 5 May 2025

The Dynamic’s monocoque (unibody) construction and independent front suspension were well ahead of their time. —Raphael Orlove, Robb Report, 27 Feb. 2025

The 124 Sport Spider’s formula, as with the Alfa, was simple and proven: a twin-cam inline-four engine driving the rear wheels, and a steel monocoque body. —Robert Ross, Robb Report, 21 Feb. 2025

The mid-engine layout used a steel monocoque (essentially a unibody) design, the first for De Tomaso. —Robert Ross, Robb Report, 17 Jan. 2025

Word History

Etymology

French, from mon- + coque shell, probably from Latin coccum kermes — more at cocoon

First Known Use

1913, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for monocoque

• artichoke
• nanticoke
• womenfolk
• awoke
• baroque
• bespoke
• colloque
• convoke
• evoke
• invoke
• keystroke
• kinfolk