ATV

ATV is an abbreviation for all-terrain vehicle, a vehicle with specialized treads and/or wheels that allows it to travel on off-road terrain.

ATVs are designed to travel over rocks, snow, and other difficult terrain. In the U.S., the term typically refers to a vehicle that has four (or at least three) wheels, a straddle seat, and handlebars for steering. ATVs are typically designed for one person, though some can accommodate two riders.

ATV is used as a noun, as in My cousin and I used to race ATVs in the hills near our neighbourhood. ATV is a common way to refer to such a vehicle—it’s more common to call it an ATV than to say all-terrain vehicle.

The term quad is commonly used to refer to an ATV that has four wheels and is typically used for recreation.

Example: You’d need an ATV to cross those rocky paths.

The first records of the abbreviation ATV come from around 1970. The first records of all-terrain vehicle come from the mid-1960s, so it seems that ATV has been used as an abbreviation almost from the beginning. Other types of vehicles are also commonly referred to with an abbreviation, as in SUV (sport utility vehicle) and ORV (off-road vehicle).

ATVs are used for a variety of purposes, such as recreation and professional uses. Certain manufacturers even sell ATVs designed for children since ATVs don’t require a driver’s license. However, ATVs are strictly regulated. It is recommended that ATV drivers be at least 16 years old and practice proper safety, such as wearing a helmet.

What are some other forms related to ATV?

• all-terrain vehicle (full term)

What are some synonyms for ATV?

• all-terrain vehicle
• off-roader
• quad

What are some words that share a root or word element with ATV? 

• SUV
• ORV
• RV
• terrain
• vehicle

What are some words that often get used in discussing ATV?

• off-road
• off-roading
• rocks
• snow
• dirt
• mud
• race
• safety

ATVs are popular for recreation, such as off-roading. But they are also used for practical and professional purposes.

It’s finally race week and I can’t wait to get to @GlenHelenRacing for the @WORCS_Racing ATV/sxs rounds this weekend. This week is the start of the second half and will be week one of 7 in a row of racing for me.… https://t.co/LADcgclRzK

— DirtHalo Racing (@dirthaloracing) September 8, 2020

Interestingly, locally, there’s a group who uses their ATVs to connect with kids, show up at rallies etc. But we all know when “people are annoyed,” there’s no rational discussion. Just a ban.

— tianna with two n’s (@TiannaManon) December 8, 2020

Two juveniles made it to shore safely after their ATVs went through the ice on the Fish Lake Reservoir. https://t.co/4bUO5XaVTw

— WDIO News (@wdiowirt) December 8, 2020

True or False?

The term ATV typically refers to a vehicle with two wheels.