rapid transit

noun

: fast passenger transportation (as by subway) in urban areas

Examples of rapid transit in a Sentence

We'll use rapid transit to get from the airport to the hotel.
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 Transit Rider Investment Program, or TRIP, which launched two years ago, now employs more than 130 civilian agents who ride light-rail and bus rapid transit lines to inspect fares and serve as a second set of eyes to maintain standards. Frederick Melo, Twin Cities, 1 Mar. 2026 Bus rapid transit is debuting with the Rapid A line (linking downtown Atlanta to the Beltline Southside Trail) the same day as NextGen begins. Doug Turnbull, AJC.com, 25 Feb. 2026 Construction on IndyGo’s Blue Line will shut down large portions of Washington Street and cause significant detours this year, as the transit agency works toward opening its third bus rapid transit route by 2028. Jordan Smith, IndyStar, 24 Feb. 2026 Beyond strengthening existing routes, the city and county should partner with the state to explore rapid transit and extend free bus service beyond the city’s Charm City Circulator. Zac Blanchard, Baltimore Sun, 17 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for rapid transit

Word History

First Known Use

1873, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of rapid transit was in 1873

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Cite this Entry

“Rapid transit.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rapid%20transit. Accessed 12 Mar. 2026.

Kids Definition

rapid transit

noun
: fast public passenger transportation (as by subway) in cities

More from Merriam-Webster on rapid transit

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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