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noun

ute

yoot

Ute (noun) means a small vehicle, common in Australia and New Zealand, with an enclosed cab and an open cargo tray at the back, similar to a pickup truck. Example: “He loaded the surfboards into the back of his ute.”

noun
1
A small vehicle, common in Australia and New Zealand, with an enclosed cab and an open cargo tray at the back, similar to a pickup truck.
"He loaded the surfboards into the back of his ute."

How to use ute

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishAustralian/New Zealand slang for a small pickup-style vehicle.

When to use it

Mainly used in Australian and New Zealand English; American English typically says "pickup truck."

Word forms

utes plural, Utes plural, Ute plural

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He loaded the surfboards into the back of his _____.

Etymology

A clipped form of "utility vehicle," from the 1930s term "coupé utility."

· First attested 1930

Class of 1930 ute joined the language around 1930.
See the full Class of 1930 →

Rhymes for ute

See all rhymes for ute →

Frequently asked questions

What does “ute” mean?

The word “ute” means a small vehicle, common in Australia and New Zealand, with an enclosed cab and an open cargo tray at the back, similar to a pickup truck. In plain terms, australian/New Zealand slang for a small pickup-style vehicle.

How do you pronounce “ute”?

“Ute” is pronounced yoot (/juːt/ in IPA).

How do you use “ute” in a sentence?

Here is “ute” used in a sentence: “He loaded the surfboards into the back of his ute.”

What part of speech is “ute”?

“Ute” is a noun.

Where does the word “ute” come from?

The word “ute” dates back to around 1930. A clipped form of "utility vehicle," from the 1930s term "coupé utility.".

Definitions: FreeDict original editorial