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

With Airbnb bungalows renting for several times normal rates, locals test-drive hosting the world — and glimpse what Olympic crowds could bring next. — Jack Flemming, Los Angeles Times, 19 June 2026

Unlike a traditional dealership that stockpiles vehicles for customers to test-drive before purchasing, at the Texas facility, Carvana has roughly 50 display cars on its playground, with twin vehicles for test-drives. — Michael Wayland, CNBC, 17 June 2026

First-time subscribers can typically get the cost-per-serving down to around $7 with intro promotions, which makes the service easier to test-drive before committing at full price. — Erin Bunch, Bon Appetit Magazine, 27 May 2026

Lie down, sink in, and test-drive bliss. — Air Mail, 11 Apr. 2026

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
• khedive
• revive
• survive
• dive