rollercoaster
Translation
roller coaster
Examples
We went on the rollercoaster at the fair.
We went on the roller coaster at the fair.
It's been an emotional rollercoaster.
It's been an emotional roller coaster.
Grammar Patterns
a/the roller coaster a ride at an amusement park We went on the roller coaster at the fair.
an emotional roller coaster a situation with many ups and downs It's been an emotional roller coaster.
Similar Words
Synonyms: big dipper (old-fashioned)
Etymology
A compound of 'roller' (something that rolls) and 'coaster' (something that moves by coasting/gravity). Note the US spelling is two words: 'roller coaster'.
Memory Tips
Think of a 'coaster' (like a sled) that 'rolls' on a track. The name is very literal. It's also a common metaphor for ups and downs.