Coupe

Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/kuːp/

Definitions

• 1. A two-door car with a fixed roof, typically having a sporty design and a more compact size than a sedan.
• 2. A type of wine glass, characterized by its wide, shallow bowl and short stem.
• 3. A competitive event, often in sports or games, where the winner receives a trophy or cup (commonly referred to as a "cup" in this context).

Usage Examples

• He drove his sleek red coupe down the highway.
• The bartender served the champagne in a coupe glass.
• The team celebrated their victory with a grand coupe trophy ceremony.

Etymology

The word "coupe" comes from the French word "couper," which means "to cut." It originally referred to something that had been "cut off" or shortened, especially in the context of a shorter carriage or vehicle. The term later evolved to refer to a specific type of automobile with a shorter body and fewer doors.

Synonyms

• Sportscar
• Cabriolet
• Two-door car
• Champagne glass

Antonyms

• Sedan
• SUV
• Minivan
• Glass tumbler

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

The pronunciation of "coupe" may vary slightly by region. In French, it is pronounced with a soft "e" sound at the end, while in English-speaking countries, it may sound like "koop" or "coo-pay," with some differences depending on accent and locality.

Historical Usage

The term "coupe" was originally used to refer to a type of horse-drawn carriage with a short body, commonly used in the 18th and 19th centuries. Over time, it evolved to refer to a type of automobile with a similar design—shortened and sporting in appearance. The word "coupe" is still commonly used in the automotive industry to describe a two-door car model with a sleek and compact design.

Cultural Nuances

In some cultures, the term "coupe" carries connotations of luxury and prestige, particularly in reference to high-end sports cars or expensive automobiles. The coupe is often viewed as a symbol of style, sophistication, and exclusivity. Additionally, the coupe glass is associated with special occasions and celebrations, particularly in Western cultures, where it is used to serve champagne and cocktails.

More Information

Coupe is a versatile word with applications ranging from automobiles to glassware. While its use as a car type is most common today, its historical roots in transportation and its association with special occasions like serving wine highlight its broad cultural significance. Whether on the road or at a celebration, the coupe is a symbol of elegance, whether in the form of a sleek sports car or a fine dining glass.