Coach

Definition

Coach is both a noun and a verb. As a noun, it refers to a person who trains, instructs, or directs a team, individual, or group, often in sports, personal development, or academics. It can also refer to a comfortable bus for long-distance travel or an old-fashioned carriage. As a verb, it means to train, guide, or instruct someone, often in sports or a particular skill.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /koʊtʃ/
• Respelling: kohch

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /kəʊtʃ/
• Respelling: kohch

Etymology

The word "coach" originates from the Hungarian word "kocsi," meaning "carriage," named after the town of Kocs where such vehicles were first made. The term was adopted into English in the 16th century, initially meaning a horse-drawn carriage. By the 19th century, "coach" expanded to mean a trainer or instructor, metaphorically referring to guiding or carrying someone toward a goal.

Derivatives

• Coaching (noun)
• Coachable (adjective)
• Coached (verb, past tense)
• Coachman (noun)
• Coachload (noun)

Synonyms

• Trainer
• Mentor
• Instructor

Antonyms

• Student
• Amateur
• Novice

Usage

The term "coach" is used in various contexts, from sports to personal development and transportation. For example, "The football coach designed new training drills," or "They traveled across the country by coach."

Related Terms

• Mentor: An experienced and trusted advisor or teacher.
• Instructor: A person who teaches or provides guidance in a specific skill or subject.
• Trainer: A person who prepares others, especially in sports or physical fitness.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A person who trains or instructs a team or individual: Often refers to someone involved in teaching sports, personal development, or other specialized skills.
  • Example: "The coach helped the team improve their tactics."
• A large, comfortable bus for long-distance travel: Refers to a vehicle designed to carry multiple passengers over extended journeys.
  • Example: "They booked a seat on the night coach to the city."
• An old-fashioned horse-drawn carriage: Historically used to describe a large carriage for passengers, typically drawn by horses.
  • Example: "The royal family arrived in a ceremonial coach."

Verb

• To train, instruct, or guide someone: Refers to teaching or mentoring a person or group in a specific skill or activity.
  • Example: "She coached her students to excel in public speaking."
• To prepare a team or individual for a competition: Used mainly in sports contexts to describe training someone to enhance their performance.
  • Example: "He has been coaching the basketball team for five years."