deadhead
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈdɛdˌhɛd/
KK: /ˈdɛdˌhɛd/
adverb
Definition
In a state of being empty, especially referring to a vehicle that is not carrying any passengers or cargo.
Example
The bus returned to the station deadhead after dropping off all the passengers.
Conversation
Did you see that train go by earlier?
Yeah, it looked like it was running deadhead without any cars attached.
I wonder where it was headed like that.
Probably just making its way back to the station empty.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
empty
vacant
unoccupied
Antonyms
full
occupied
loaded
intransitive verb
Definition
To travel without carrying passengers or cargo, often used in the context of transportation services.
Example
The airline had to deadhead the plane back to the airport after dropping off the passengers.
Tense Forms
Past: deadheaded
Past Participle: deadheaded
Conversation
Did you hear about the flight that had to deadhead back to the airport?
Yeah, I heard it was a bit of a hassle for the crew.
I can imagine! It must be frustrating to make a trip without any passengers.
noun
Definition
A person who uses a free ticket to enter an event or travel without paying, or a vehicle that travels without carrying passengers or cargo.
Example
He managed to deadhead into the concert using a free pass.
Conversation
Did you see that guy at the concert last night?
Yeah, he looked like a total deadhead just hanging around.
Right? I wonder if he even paid for his ticket.
transitive verb
Definition
To remove dead flowers from a plant or to operate a vehicle without carrying passengers or cargo.
Example
She decided to deadhead the roses to encourage new blooms.
Tense Forms
Past: deadheaded
Past Participle: deadheaded
Conversation
I need to deadhead my roses before they wilt.
That sounds like a good idea! It really helps them bloom better.
Yeah, I’ve noticed they look so much healthier afterward.
Root Explanation
Deadhead is formed from "dead" (from Old English "dead", meaning no longer alive) and "head" (from Old English "heafod", meaning the top or leader). The term originally referred to a person who is no longer contributing or is inactive, often used in contexts like gardening or music to describe someone who is not participating actively.
Memory Tip
Think of someone who is 'no longer alive' ('dead') and is at the 'top' ('head') of a situation but not contributing — that's why a deadhead refers to someone who is inactive or not participating.
Visually Confused Words
redhead