test-drive

verb

ˈtes(t)-ˌdrīv 

test-drove ˈtes(t)-ˌdrōv  ; test-driven ˈtes(t)-ˌdri-vən  ; test-driving ˈtes(t)-ˌdrī-viŋ 

transitive verb

1

: to drive (a motor vehicle) in order to evaluate performance

2

: to use or examine (something, such as a computer program) in order to evaluate performance

test-drive the new game

test-drive noun

Examples of test-drive in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Encourage an environment where employees are free to brainstorm, collaborate, and test-drive ideas—all while using agents to facilitate the process. —Aytekin Tank, Forbes.com, 5 June 2025

To test-drive a new watch during the fourth edition of the Miami Grand Prix. —Victoria Gomelsky, Robb Report, 12 May 2025

But the solution to the endlessly revolving door between the streets, hospitals, and shelters has already been successfully test-driven. —Dave Giffen, New York Daily News, 1 Apr. 2025

The 90 Day Finn Program provides an opportunity to test-drive life and building a venture in one of one of Europe’s most dynamic ecosystems. —Jessica Mendoza, Forbes.com, 28 Mar. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1950, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for test-drive

• alive
• archive
• arrive
• beehive
• connive
• contrive
• deprive
• derive
• revive
• survive
• dive
• drive