motor vehicle

noun

: an automotive vehicle not operated on rails
especially : one with rubber tires for use on highways

Examples of motor vehicle in a Sentence

You can register your car at the Registry of Motor Vehicles. got a license to drive a motor vehicle the minute she turned 16
Recent Examples on the Web Allow local governments to impose new motor vehicle taxes with higher fees on trucks and heavier cars as well as less fuel-efficient vehicles. John Frank, Axios, 15 Oct. 2024 Furthermore, those who repeatedly commit property crimes that harm the community, such as motor vehicle theft and significant retail theft, should face incarceration. The Denver Post, 11 Oct. 2024 While that year saw the largest year-to-year motor vehicle theft rate increase, the report says 2023 marked the highest motor vehicle theft rate since 2007. Kaia Hubbard, CBS News, 23 Sep. 2024 Free; a valid motor vehicle permit or day pass is required for entry to park. Luann Gibbs, The Enquirer, 8 Sep. 2024 See all Example Sentences for motor vehicle 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'motor vehicle.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1890, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of motor vehicle was in 1890

Dictionary Entries Near motor vehicle

Cite this Entry

“Motor vehicle.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/motor%20vehicle. Accessed 31 Oct. 2024.

Kids Definition

motor vehicle

noun
: a motorized vehicle (as an automobile or motorcycle) not operated on rails

More from Merriam-Webster on motor vehicle

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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