rider

DEFINITION

A person who rides a motorcycle or bicycle.

ETYMOLOGY

• The Mandarin term “骑士” is a paraphrase of the English terms “motorcyclist” and “bicyclist”.

• The Mandarin term “骑士” was originally used to refer to soldiers who did battle on horseback. Such soldiers were known in battle as cavaliers. Outside of the context of battle, such as during political or religious activities, these personnel were known as knights.

SAMPLE SENTENCE

I was downstairs early this morning, and was on my way to the coffee shop when I saw a group of riders wearing the same red and white tops and black shorts pass by. They were perfectly coordinated with the row of coloured flags commemorating National Day in the background, adding a celebratory atmosphere to the month of August, which was also the month in which the country gained independence. (Lianhe Wanbao, 22/8/2018)

TERMS USED IN OTHER REGIONS

摩托车驾驶员 (Mainland China), 铁骑士 (Hong Kong)