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chauffeur

/ˈʃoʊ.fər/ French Origin Transport

Original Word

chauffeur

French

Entered English

Early 20th century

First recorded usage in English

The Story Behind "chauffeur"

From French 'chauffeur', literally 'stoker' or 'heater', referring to the person who fed the fire in early steam-powered vehicles. The meaning shifted to a professional driver in the early 20th century.

Example Usage

"The chauffeur opened the door of the limousine for the guests."

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