house car

noun

1

: an enclosed freight car (as a boxcar, refrigerator car, stockcar)

2

: a railroad car for handling goods to be loaded or unloaded at a freight house

Word History

First Known Use

1838, in the meaning defined at sense 1

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now