bike
8 synonyms and 0 antonyms for bike, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A bicycle or, informally, a motorcycle.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use bike
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
A clipped form of bicycle, first recorded in the 1880s.
Full origin of bike →Frequently asked questions
What does “bike” mean?
The word “bike” means a bicycle or, informally, a motorcycle. In plain terms, a two-wheeled vehicle you pedal or ride with an engine, or the act of riding one.
How do you pronounce “bike”?
“Bike” is pronounced byk (/baɪk/ in IPA).
How do you use “bike” in a sentence?
Here is “bike” used in a sentence: “He rides his bike to work every day.”
What part of speech is “bike”?
Depending on how it is used, “bike” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “bike” come from?
The word “bike” dates back to around 1880. A clipped form of bicycle, first recorded in the 1880s.
Is “bike” a common word?
“Bike” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A1 level.
How many meanings does “bike” have?
“Bike” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a bicycle or, informally, a motorcycle.
Does 'bike' mean a bicycle or a motorcycle?
Both, depending on context. 'Bike' is most often a short, informal word for a bicycle, the pedal-powered two-wheeler. But it is also used casually for a motorcycle, especially among riders. Surrounding words usually make it clear — 'ride my bike to school' suggests a bicycle; 'a 1,000cc bike' means a motorcycle.
What are the main types of bicycle?
Common types suit different uses. Road bikes are light and fast for paved surfaces; mountain bikes are rugged for off-road trails; hybrids blend the two for everyday riding. Others include BMX bikes for tricks, touring bikes for long journeys and electric bikes, which add a motor to assist pedalling.
Is 'bike' formal or informal?
'Bike' is informal, the everyday spoken form. In formal or technical writing the fuller words 'bicycle' and 'motorcycle' are preferred. There is nothing wrong with 'bike' in ordinary conversation, on signs or in casual writing, but a manufacturer's manual or legal document will usually choose the more precise term.