sedan
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /sɪdˈæn/
US
- /səˈdæn/
Description
- car with a closed body
- separate trunk
- four-door passenger car
- family vehicle
Imagine a classic road trip: windows down, music playing, bags packed in the trunk. Chances are, you're picturing this kind of car. A sedan is a passenger car with a fixed roof, a full cabin for people, and a separate trunk in the back. Most have four doors. They are known for being comfortable, practical, and easy to use every day, which is why they are common choices for families, commuters, and anyone who wants reliable transportation. Think of models like the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, or BMW 3 Series. Even though SUVs and trucks are very popular now, this type of car is still a familiar sight on roads around the world, tied to daily life, work trips, and weekend drives.
The word "sedan" likely traces its roots back to the "sedan chair," an enclosed seat carried on poles by two people. As automobiles evolved, the term was adopted for cars with a similar enclosed body style. Most sedans use a "three-box" shape, with separate areas for the engine, the passengers, and the luggage. Today, a sedan is usually understood as a passenger car with a fixed roof, two rows of seats, and a separate trunk that is divided from the main cabin. Most modern sedans have four doors. This helps distinguish them from hatchbacks, where the cargo area is open to the passenger space, and station wagons, which have a longer roof and a larger rear cargo area.
While automotive designs continue to evolve, the core appeal of the sedan remains rooted in comfort, stability, and fuel efficiency. Sedans vary significantly in scale, ranging from compact models like the Honda Civic to full-sized luxury flagships like the Mercedes-Benz S-Class. They are the go-to choice for professional transport, business travel, and daily urban driving. It is worth noting that the rise of "crossovers" has blurred some traditional lines; some manufacturers now market "four-door coupes" which feature the sleek, sloping rooflines of a sports car while maintaining the four-door utility of a sedan. Nevertheless, for those seeking a balanced, reliable, and classic driving experience, the traditional sedan remains a gold standard.
Examples
- 1
Hotel arrival
A black sedan was parked outside the hotel when we arrived.
- 2
Family car
They traded in their old sedan for a small SUV after their second child was born.
- 3
Rental options
Most rental companies offer sedans, SUVs, and vans at different price levels.
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- sedannoun
Forms
- sedanspluralnoun