motocross

noun

mo·​to·​cross ˈmō-tō-ˌkrȯs 

variants or less commonly motorcross

ˈmō-tər-ˌkrȯs 

plural motocrosses also motorcrosses

: a closed-course motorcycle race over natural or simulated rough terrain (as with steep inclines, hairpin turns, and mud)

… has brought in some 75,000 visitors during the past six months. They have come to participate in such activities as square dance contests, Highland games and motocrosses.

—Judith Segal and Linn Varney

also : the sport of engaging in motocross races

If you think racing motocross is a tough sport now—just take yourself back 30 years to the early '70s.

—Dirt Rider

Motocross began around 1914 as a form of relaxation for employees at an English motorcycle factory. It became an international sport in the '50s, mainly in Europe. In the '70s, it took root in America, particularly in Southern California.

—Tracy Young

This versatile space seats 12,000 people for events ranging from basketball to motorcross and world-class ice skating.

—Steve Womersley and Rachel Neustein

In a return for the first event this summer, motocross enthusiasts will once again be able to race at the Taber Motorsports Park this coming weekend.

—Cole Parkinson

Examples of motocross in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The former motocross competitor, 49, spoke to PEOPLE about his plans for the holiday season in November. —Liza Esquibias, People.com, 23 Dec. 2024

In times when motocross tracks have been shutting their doors every passing month owing to the noise of gas dirt bikes, options like the Hightail are a pleasant solution. —New Atlas, 16 Dec. 2024

Her transition to motorcycle racing in 1960 marked her as a pioneer, becoming the first woman in the United States to compete in motorcycle road racing and motocross. —Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 1 Dec. 2024

The sport is a blend of motocross—a more traditional, outdoor version of dirt bike racing—and the intensity of arena-style competition, bringing the spectacle closer to fans. —Kanzah Maktoum, Forbes, 23 Sep. 2024

Word History

Etymology

motocross borrowed from French, from moto "motorcycle" (short for motocyclette) + cross-country "racecourse laid out over open country" (borrowed from English cross-country entry 1); motorcross altered from motocross by conformation to motor entry 1

First Known Use

1951, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

motocross

noun

mo·​to·​cross ˈmōt-ō-ˌkrȯs 

: a motorcycle race over a course laid out on rough terrain

also : the sport of motocross racing