bicycle
noun (countable)
UK/ˈbaɪ.sɪ.kəl/US/ˈbaɪ.sɪ.kəl/
A human-powered, pedal-driven vehicle with two wheels attached to a frame, one behind the other, used for transportation or recreation.
Example Sentences
She rides her bicycle to work every day to stay fit and reduce her carbon footprint.
His bicycle was equipped with a basket, making short grocery trips around the neighborhood more convenient.
Many cities encourage bicycle use by adding dedicated bike lanes along busy roads.
A sturdy frame and properly inflated tires can significantly improve the handling of your bicycle.
He invested in a new racing bicycle to prepare for the upcoming triathlon.
Wearing a helmet while riding a bicycle is essential to minimize head injuries in case of an accident.
On sunny weekends, families often explore local parks on their bicycles, enjoying both exercise and fresh air in a relaxing setting filled with winding trails and scenic views.
The bicycle has undergone numerous innovations over the years, evolving from cumbersome wooden prototypes into sleek, lightweight designs that accommodate riders of all skill levels.
Thesaurus
Synonyms
verb (intransitive)
UK/ˈbaɪ.sɪ.kəl/US/ˈbaɪ.sɪ.kəl/
To travel or ride on a bicycle; to go by bicycle.
Example Sentences
He decided to bicycle to school every morning for exercise.
On weekends, they often bicycle around the countryside to appreciate the scenic views.
You can bicycle to the store instead of driving to cut down on fuel costs.
Tourists may bicycle through the city’s narrow streets, getting an up-close view of historical landmarks.
The tour group planned to bicycle across the bridge for a unique perspective of the bay.
Some employees choose to bicycle to work as part of a healthy lifestyle and to avoid rush-hour traffic.
She will bicycle along the scenic coastal highway, pausing to enjoy the sunrise and capture breathtaking photographs of the cliffs and shoreline as the early morning light dances on the rolling waves.
They resolved to bicycle cross-country over the summer, a challenging yet rewarding adventure that allowed them to discover hidden trails, small-town culture, and picturesque landscapes otherwise overlooked by typical tourist routes.
Thesaurus
Synonyms
How to Use
A human-powered, pedal-driven vehicle with two wheels for travel or leisure.As both a practical and recreational mode of transport, “bicycle” is used to indicate traveling by this human-powered vehicle. Common contexts include everyday commuting, exercise routines, eco-friendly travel, and leisurely rides. In everyday conversation, phrases like “I bicycle to work” convey the action of riding, while in written form—such as instructions or suggestions—you might use sentences like “Bicycle through the park for a scenic route.”When giving or receiving directions, “bicycle” can help specify the mode of travel and highlight distance or terrain: “It’s a short distance—perfect for bicycling.” In educational or instructional texts, you might discuss techniques or safety measures, such as balancing, signaling, or wearing protective gear: “Bicycling requires awareness of traffic rules and a helmet for protection.”The word also appears in diverse fields such as health and fitness, where trainers encourage people to incorporate bicycling into their routines. Environmental campaigns emphasize the reduced carbon footprint when opting to bicycle instead of driving. Urban planners, too, use the term when discussing infrastructure plans for bike lanes or community bike-share programs. Overall, the utility of “bicycle” lies in its broad coverage of function, from day-to-day commuting to weekend getaways, underlining the ability to traverse various terrains with minimal energy consumption and a positive impact on personal health and the environment.
Alternatives
There are a few alternatives and related terms you could use in place of the word “bicycle,” each with varying nuances. “Bike” is a straightforward, casual synonym—short and commonly used in everyday conversation: “I’ll take my bike to the store.” If you need a more general term, “cycle” can encompass everything from a bicycle to a motorcycle, but the context usually clarifies which one you mean. If you want to emphasize a specific style, terms like “road bike,” “mountain bike,” or “hybrid bike” might be more appropriate, especially for sport or specialized discussion.In contexts where the exact vehicle is less important than the act of riding, phrases like “ride,” “cycle,” or “pedal” can shift attention to the action. For instance, “Let’s go pedal around the neighborhood” captures the idea without necessarily specifying the vehicle type. In a more formal piece, you might refer to “human-powered transport,” which can also include skateboards, scooters, or other manually driven devices, though it remains broader than “bicycle.” Depending on audience and tone, mixing and matching these alternatives helps you avoid repetition and tailor your language to suit technical explanations, casual chats, or promotional copy about cycling benefits.
Writing
When writing about this human-powered vehicle, clarity and audience engagement are key. Begin by detailing its fundamental components—two wheels, a frame, a chain-driven mechanism—so readers understand how it works. If your piece has an instructional slant, consider focusing on safety measures: helmets, reflective gear, and adherence to traffic rules. Integrating real-world examples or personal anecdotes—like describing a memorable ride—makes your text more relatable and lively.Should you be crafting an educational article, you might explore the health advantages, such as improved cardiovascular fitness or reduced stress. For environmental-themed pieces, emphasize the reduction in carbon emissions and traffic congestion. For travel writing, highlight the scenic aspect and how slowly moving on two wheels can reveal hidden gems a car might miss. Maintain a consistent tone—lighthearted for a blog post, more formal for a scholarly paper—so the style meshes with your subject matter.Whenever possible, offer specific tips and resources. Readers value tangible takeaways, whether it’s the best brand for novices, advice about route planning, or an overview of local riding laws. By striking a balance between informational detail and captivating narrative, your writing can help people see riding as an accessible, eco-friendly, and joyful activity rather than just another means of transportation.
Casual Conversation
In daily chit-chat, the term “bicycle” might feel a bit formal, so it’s more common to say “bike.” For instance, “Hey, let’s grab our bikes and explore the neighborhood,” or “I’m biking to the store—want to come?” Such casual uses highlight the fun, laid-back side of riding. Friends might discuss the coolest new bike designs, compare comfortable seat options, or trade stories about scenic trails.At the same time, you can lightly weave in health or environmental benefits: “I’ve been biking lately to stay fit—plus, it’s saving me money on gas!” If one friend is considering giving cycling a go, a supportive suggestion could be, “Take it slow at first, maybe just around the block.”In casual conversation, you’re less likely to go in-depth about mechanics or historical details. Instead, focus on comfort, enjoyment, and everyday convenience: “It’s a nice day—perfect for a leisurely bike ride!” Let the spontaneity and relaxed tone reflect the simplicity of hopping on two wheels to enjoy the fresh air. Ultimately, discussing “bicycle” in a casual context keeps things breezy, focusing on fun, social bonding, and the small joys of pedaling around with friends or family.
Etymology
The modern vehicle we call a “bicycle” has roots in 19th-century Europe. Its etymological foundation combines the prefix “bi-,” meaning “two,” with “cycle,” derived from the Greek “kyklos,” referring to a circle or wheel. Early iterations appeared as “dandy horses” or “hobby horses,” which were essentially wooden frames that riders propelled with their feet on the ground. Over time, designers innovated with pedals, metal frames, and eventually rubber tires, increasing both comfort and efficiency.During the late 1800s, the so-called “safety bicycle” emerged, featuring similar-sized wheels and a chain drive that reduced the risk of toppling—a stark contrast to high-wheel “penny-farthings.” The term “bicycle” soon caught on in popular usage and signaled a revolution in personal transport. Individuals, especially women, found newfound independence and mobility, influencing social norms and even fashion, as more practical attire like bloomers replaced restrictive garments.Today, the bicycle continues to evolve, with modern designs incorporating lighter materials, gear systems, and advanced braking technology. The core principle remains the same: two wheels, human-powered motion, and a balance-based ride that fosters freedom, fitness, and simplicity. This timeline of constant adaptation demonstrates how a humble two-wheeled invention reshaped travel, opened up social possibilities, and still serves as a leading eco-friendly option worldwide.
