motor vehicle

noun

: an automotive vehicle not operated on rails

especially : one with rubber tires for use on highways

Synonyms of motor vehicle

• car
• bus
• automobile
• machine
• wheels

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

McFadden is currently charged with unauthorized use of a motor vehicle, robbery, and unlawful possession of a firearm. — Matthew Ablon, CBS News, 10 Aug. 2026

In Colorado, motor vehicle accidents are the top cause of death for children after their first birthday and the second-leading cause for adults younger than 25, behind suicide. — Meg Wingerter, Denver Post, 9 Aug. 2026

Prosecutors say Dick assaulted Buckingham with the motor vehicle on March 19. — Nancy Dillon, Rolling Stone, 6 Aug. 2026

Booth said police held a warrant charging DeAngelis with negligent homicide with a motor vehicle and making an improper turn. — Justin Muszynski, Hartford Courant, 5 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1890, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

motor vehicle

noun

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