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DictionarypelotonMain group of cyclists
noun

peloton

PEL-uh-tahn/ˈpɛləˌtɑn/

The main group of riders in a bicycle race.

The six cyclists ride together in a compact peloton.

Six road cyclists ride as one compact main pack in a bicycle race, shown from a three-quarter front view with closely staggered wheels and a clear shared direction of travel.
Etymology
pelotOld Frenchball
+onFrenchsmall

The “little ball” image came to describe a group of people, including a body of soldiers. In cycling, it describes the main mass of riders moving together.

In context

Lanterne Rouge1:33
sitting 20 seconds in front of the peloton today
The Day Tadej Pogačar HUMILIATED the Pro Peloton | Tour de France 2021 Stage 8

More examples

  • She breaks away from the peloton on the final climb.
  • After fixing a flat tire, he catches up with the peloton.
  • Riders near the back of the peloton struggle to move forward.

Forms

peloton · pelotons

Similar words

pack
Pack describes any close group of racers, including smaller groups.
bunch
Bunch emphasizes riders clustered together, not necessarily the main group.