tandem
Tandem (adj) means Arranged one behind the other, or working together closely. Example: “They rode a tandem bicycle along the coast.”
How to use tandem
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishWorking together, or lined up one behind another, like riders on a two-seat bicycle.
Word forms
tandemed past tense, tandems singular
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
They rode a _____ bicycle along the coast.
Etymology
Borrowed from Latin tandem ("at length, finally"), humorously applied in English to horses harnessed one behind the other rather than side by side.
Synonyms
View more →Frequently asked questions
What does “tandem” mean?
The word “tandem” means arranged one behind the other, or working together closely. In plain terms, working together, or lined up one behind another, like riders on a two-seat bicycle.
How do you pronounce “tandem”?
“Tandem” is pronounced TAN-duhm (/ˈtændəm/ in IPA).
How do you use “tandem” in a sentence?
Here is “tandem” used in a sentence: “They rode a tandem bicycle along the coast.”
What part of speech is “tandem”?
Depending on how it is used, “tandem” can be an adjective and an adverb.
Where does the word “tandem” come from?
The word “tandem” comes from Latin. Borrowed from Latin tandem ("at length, finally"), humorously applied in English to horses harnessed one behind the other rather than side by side.
Is “tandem” a common word?
“Tandem” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “tandem” have?
“Tandem” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: arranged one behind the other, or working together closely.
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