noun
chassis
SHAS-ee/ˈʃæsi/
The framework supporting the main components of a vehicle or piece of equipment.
The car's exposed chassis connects the frame rails, crossmembers, and four wheels.
Etymology
The case or box root combines with a collective ending to name a framework. English used the word for window frames and gun-carriage bases before applying it to a vehicle’s supporting frame.
In context
yet matched the rigidity of the steel chassis used in earlier GT40s. Unlike the Mark 1 and Mark 2 GT40s, with their steel chassis and suspension brackets welded directly to the frame
More examples
- The engine mounts directly to the chassis.
- A metal chassis supports the electronic components.
- Both vehicles use similar chassis.
Forms
chassis
Similar words
- body
- A vehicle body encloses occupants or cargo; the chassis is its supporting framework.