convoy
- 01 B2 Upper Intermediate
n.a group of cars, trucks, or ships travelling together, usually for safety or to deliver goods.
n.a group of vehicles or ships moving together for mutual protection or logistical efficiency, often accompanied by an armed escort.
Simple“A long convoy of trucks carrying food and water arrived at the camp this morning.”
In context“The humanitarian convoy was forced to halt at the border while officials verified the medical supplies and travel permits.”
UsageOften used with the preposition 'of' followed by the type of vehicle.
Synonyms - 02 C1 Advanced
n.the act of protecting a group as they travel.
n.the act of escorting or accompanying for protection; the state of being under such protection.
Simple“The merchant ships sailed under convoy to avoid any danger from the storm.”
In context“During the conflict, merchant vessels were required to sail under convoy to mitigate the risk of targeted attacks in international waters.”
UsageCommonly found in the phrase 'under convoy'.
Synonyms - 03 C1 Advanced
v.to travel with a group of vehicles to keep them safe.
v.to accompany a group of vehicles or ships for the purpose of protection. Transitive — requires a direct object.
Simple“Military planes will convoy the transport ships across the ocean.”
In context“The naval destroyers were assigned to convoy the tankers through the narrow strait, ensuring their safe passage despite the regional tensions.”
“Seven World Central Kitchen workers were killed in the Israeli strike on their convoy in 2024.”
“UK, Australia and Canada call Israel’s decision not to investigate deadly 2024 strike on a Gaza aid convoy 'shameful'.”
From Middle English, from Old French convoier, another form of conveier, from Vulgar Latin *convio (compare Medieval Latin convio (“to accompany on the way”)), from Latin con- (“together”) + via (“way”).
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.