# tram

/ˈtɹæm/ (US) · /tɹˈæm/ (UK) · CEFR A2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/tram
Updated: 2026-05-06

## Definition

a long vehicle that runs on metal tracks in the middle of a street. It is powered by electricity and carries people around a city.

For teachers: a passenger vehicle powered by electricity that travels on rails embedded in the surface of public roads.

## Examples

- The tram stops right outside the central station.
- Many European cities use a tram network to reduce traffic congestion and provide reliable public transport in the city center.
- While the historic tram remains a popular tourist attraction, the city has recently invested in a modern light-rail system to better connect the outlying suburbs with the commercial district.

## Usage notes

- Commonly used in British, Australian, and European English; the North American equivalent is 'streetcar' or 'trolley'.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.