semitrailer

noun

semi·​trail·​er ˈse-ˌmī-ˌtrā-lər How to pronounce semitrailer (audio)
ˈse-mē-
-mi-
plural semitrailers
1
: a freight trailer that when attached is supported at its forward end by the fifth wheel device of the truck tractor
2
: a trucking rig made up of a tractor and a semitrailer

called also big rig

Examples of semitrailer 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.
Hyundai Translead, North America’s leading semitrailer builder, struck an agreement with the state to establish major new manufacturing facilities in Will County, creating close to 2,500 new Illinois jobs. The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 23 Mar. 2026 The driver of the semitrailer was treated for minor conditions and declined to be taken to a hospital. Lauren Penington, Denver Post, 10 Mar. 2026 The storm caused an hours-long mess on Interstate 85 northeast of the city, after a crash left dozens of semitrailers and other vehicles backed up into the evening, according to the State Highway Patrol. Adrian Sainz, Los Angeles Times, 1 Feb. 2026 The state announced travel restrictions for some commercial vehicles, such as semitrailers, on interstates starting Friday afternoon. Andrew Freedman, CNN Money, 26 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for semitrailer

Word History

First Known Use

1912, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of semitrailer was in 1912

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Semitrailer.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/semitrailer. Accessed 31 Mar. 2026.

Kids Definition

semitrailer

noun
semi·​trail·​er ˈsem-i-ˌtrā-lər How to pronounce semitrailer (audio)
ˈsem-ˌī-
1
: a freight trailer that when attached is supported at its forward end by the truck tractor
2
: a trucking rig made up of a tractor and a semitrailer

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