General
jalopy
What does jalopy mean?
Affectionately, an old car someone is fond of despite its faults.
"I'll never sell that old jalopy, she's got character."
Origin
American slang that emerged in the 1920s as cars became common and old ones piled up. The exact origin is murky, with one theory linking it to Jalapa, Mexico, where scrapped American cars were sometimes shipped.
Frequently asked questions
What does 'jalopy' mean?
It's a worn-out, beat-up old car. The word took off in the 1920s as automobiles spread and clunkers multiplied.
Where did 'jalopy' come from?
Its origin is uncertain. One popular theory ties it to Jalapa, Mexico, a destination for scrapped American cars in the 1920s.
Is 'jalopy' an insult to a car?
Mostly it's affectionate-mocking. People often call their own beloved old wrecks jalopies with a grin.
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