limousine

Where does the word "limousine" come from? It comes from French Limousin, passing through French before entering English (1902).

Limousine’s story begins in French: Limousin meant “Limousin region.” A region of central France around Limoges. Within French, it grew into limousine by 1800s. A hooded cloak worn by Limousin shepherds, then a car whose driver sat outside under a similar hood. It reached English by 1902 as limousine. Borrowed with the early motor car. Today, limousine means a large, luxurious car, often driven by a chauffeur.

1. Stage 1 · French · medieval Limousin "Limousin region", a region of central France around Limoges.
2. Stage 2 · French · 1800s limousine "hooded cloak; car", a hooded cloak worn by Limousin shepherds, then a car whose driver sat outside under a similar hood.
3. Stage 3 · English · 1902 limousine "luxury car", borrowed with the early motor car.