forklift

noun

fork·​lift ˈfȯrk-ˌlift How to pronounce forklift (audio)
: a self-propelled machine for hoisting and transporting heavy objects by means of steel fingers inserted under the load

Examples of forklift 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.
Dontae Lewis had a few jobs, his mom said, but had found stable work as a forklift operator. Matthew Cupelli, IndyStar, 15 July 2025 Police also believe the thieves used a forklift and other construction tools at the site to move the heavy sculptures. Sean Emery, Oc Register, 22 June 2025 First, there’s whatever sadistic fates the filmmakers have in mind for the characters, from being impaled by a forklift to having their faces plunged into the propeller of the Staten Island Ferry. Peter Debruge, Variety, 3 Apr. 2025 Lee said obtaining those skills can take anywhere from a day or two for a forklift certification to up to four years of education and apprenticeship programs for maintenance technicians, one of the most in-demand manufacturing jobs today. Bailey Schulz, USA Today, 30 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for forklift

Word History

First Known Use

1944, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of forklift was in 1944

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Cite this Entry

“Forklift.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/forklift. Accessed 21 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

forklift

noun
fork·​lift ˈfȯr-ˌklift How to pronounce forklift (audio)
: a machine for lifting heavy objects by means of steel fingers inserted under the load

More from Merriam-Webster on forklift

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