Definition

A small car that people can drive and bump into each other in a fun way, usually found at amusement parks.

Example

The children laughed as they rode the dodgems at the fair.

Conversation

Have you ever tried the dodgem cars at the amusement park?

Yeah, they are so much fun!

I love how you can bump into your friends while driving a dodgem.

Exactly! It always makes for some great laughs.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Dodgem originates from the verb 'dodge' (from the early 19th century, possibly of unknown origin, but often associated with the idea of evading or avoiding) combined with the suffix '-em' (a colloquial form used in British English to denote a type of vehicle or action). The term 'dodgem' refers to a type of amusement ride where participants drive small cars and attempt to avoid colliding with one another.

Memory Tip

Think of the word 'dodge' which means to avoid, and remember that 'dodgem' refers to the fun of avoiding collisions in a ride.

Visually Confused Words