Why does the phrase ‘Ride Shotgun’ mean to ride in the front passenger seat?
To ride shotgun means to ride on the front passenger seat of the car, next to the driver.
This term arose in the 19th century United States. The vehicles and coaches were often accompanied by a person who sat in the front seat next to the driver with a shotgun to provide protection from robbers and dacoits.
So, to ride shotgun meant to sit next to the driver in the front seat.
For example —
“Please, let me ride shotgun! I want to see how he drives this car.”
Please, let me sit in the front passenger seat.
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Hi, I am Gauri Shanker, a Vocab teacher and enthusiast. I teach vocabulary in a fun and engaging way. You can check out my courses here.
