# prius

/ˈpɹaɪəs/ (US) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/prius
Updated: 2026-05-09

## Definition

a popular type of car that uses both gasoline and electricity to save fuel. It is well-known for being environmentally friendly and quiet.

For teachers: a hybrid electric vehicle manufactured by Toyota, often cited as the first mass-produced hybrid car. When used as a common noun, it refers to the specific model or similar hybrid vehicles.

## Examples

- She drives a Prius to save money on gas.
- The city replaced its older fleet of sedans with the Prius to reduce carbon emissions and fuel costs.
- While the Prius was once the primary symbol of green motoring, it now competes in a diverse market of fully electric and plug-in hybrid alternatives.

## Usage notes

- Often used as a proper noun (capitalised), though it may appear in lowercase when referring to the vehicle type generically.

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