Chauffeurs

/ʃoʊfərz/ noun

Definition

Plural of chauffeur; professional drivers employed to operate vehicles for individuals or companies.

Etymology

From French 'chauffeur' (one who heats/fires the engine), from 'chauffer' (to heat), from Latin 'calefacere' (to make hot). Once automobiles became common, 'chauffeur' shifted from stoker to professional driver.

Kelly Says

The origin of this word is fascinating: early car drivers were literally called 'chauffeurs' because they had to stoke the hot engines to keep them running! As cars became more automated, the word kept its job title but lost its original meaning.

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