In cities worldwide, taxis are an indispensable mode of transportation. Have you ever wondered why do we call taxis cabs?
Due to historical and cultural influences, the words “taxi” and “cab” have long been used in the English language. Knowing the reasons behind this adoption might help us better understand how urban transportation has developed over time and how it has influenced the way we speak.
History and Meaning of ‘Taxi’
‘Taxi’ comes from the word ‘taximeter,’ – a device that determines fares depending on the distance travelled. As a noun, ‘taximeter’ is derived from the French word ‘taximètre,’ which combines the two words:
- ‘Taxa’ (Latin for fee or fare)
- ‘Metron’ (Greek for measure)
With the advent of vehicles in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, people commonly used the term ‘taxi’ to refer to fare-based transportation services.
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Why Do We Call Taxis Cabs?
The term ‘cabriolet’ refers to a lightweight horse-drawn vehicle with a folding roof, where the word ‘cab’ originates. This kind of transportation was quite popular in Europe in the 18th and 19th centuries.
Originating from the French word ‘cabrioler,’ which means ‘to leap or skip,’ the term ‘cabriolet’ reflects the gentle and graceful movement of the carriage.
Any vehicle that used to carry people for a fee was eventually referred to as a ‘cab.’ This explains why taxis are now frequently called “cabs.”
Read: Is a taxi public transport?
Why Do We Use Both Terms?
Due to language preferences and historical usage, ‘taxi’ and ‘cab’ coexist. ‘Cab’ is still widely used in some areas. However, ‘taxi’ is more frequently used in other places.
The switch from horse-drawn to motorised taxis in the early 20th century probably caused these names to merge.
Consequently, the two terms became synonymous, and ‘taxicab’ became a hybrid name that is still used today.
Read: How much do taxi drivers make?
Modern Usage and Cultural Influence
The cab is frequently used in casual discussions. However, taxi is the more professional and globally accepted term in modern usage. The word ‘cab’ is often used in the US and the UK. It mainly refers to ride-hailing services and private rental cars.
The impact of media, films, and urban culture has further solidified the interchangeability of these terminologies in everyday speech.
The Bottom Line
Knowing why do we call taxis cabs is a way to improve your linguistic understanding. It draws attention to the evergreen customs that still influence today’s modern terms used in transportation.
