bus

Reading level: hard

Estimated CEFR level: C1 — Advanced

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

  1. noun a vehicle carrying many passengers; used for public transport
  2. noun the topology of a network whose components are connected by a busbar
  3. noun an electrical conductor that makes a common connection between several circuits

Etymology

Clipping of omnibus. Superseded earlier 'bus, where the apostrophe indicated a clipping. The shift in spelling likely reflects the fact that modern speakers no longer perceive this term as a clipping. The electrical sense is derived from figurative application of the automotive sense.

In classic literature

Synonyms

autobus, coach, charabanc, double-decker, jitney, motorbus, motorcoach, omnibus, passenger vehicle

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