taxi

Etymology

Shortened from taximeter cab, taximeter (“automatic meter that records distance and fare”) from French taximètre, from German Taxameter (whence also English taxameter), coined from Medieval Latin taxa (“tax, charge”). More at tax, task.

noun

1. A vehicle that may be hired for single journeys by members of the public, driven by a taxi driver.
   "Taxi," he called. And when one pulled up to the curb with screeching brakes he ordered, "The nearest restaurant." 1932, Delos W. Lovelace, King Kong, published 1965, page 12
   [Sobbing uncontrollably] I thought I could make it work between us because you looked a bit like a man. TAXI! 2007 August 24, Graham Linehan, The IT Crowd, Season 2, Episode 1
2. (aviation) The movement of an aircraft across an airport's surface under its own power; a phase of aircraft operation involving this movement.
   During taxi, the flaps and slats are extended and the second engine (if not already running) is started.
   Seat belts must be kept fastened during taxi, takeoff, turbulence, and landing.
3. (South Africa) A share taxi.

verb

1. To move an aircraft on the ground under its own power.
   taxi down the runway
2. To travel by taxicab.
   [H]e had taxied to the waterfront bent upon a business in which nostalgia had no part[.] 1932, Delos W. Lovelace, King Kong, published 1965, page 1