der Sattelzug
Translation
articulated lorry, semi-trailer truck, tractor-trailer
Examples
Ein Sattelzug blockiert die Autobahn.
An articulated lorry is blocking the motorway.
Der Fahrer parkt den großen Sattelzug.
The driver is parking the large articulated lorry.
Grammar Patterns
to drive an articulated lorry Er fährt einen Sattelzug für eine Spedition.
Similar Words
Lastkraftwagen (LKW), Gliederzug (drawbar trailer)
Etymology
From 'Sattel' (saddle) and 'Zug' (train, pull). The trailer rests on a 'saddle' (the fifth wheel) on the tractor unit.
Memory Tips
Picture the tractor unit having a 'saddle' (Sattel) on its back, pulling the trailer like a 'train' (Zug).