test-drove ˈtes(t)-ˌdrōv How to pronounce test-drive (audio) ; test-driven ˈtes(t)-ˌdri-vən How to pronounce test-drive (audio) ; test-driving ˈtes(t)-ˌdrī-viŋ How to pronounce test-drive (audio)

transitive verb

1
: to drive (a motor vehicle) in order to evaluate performance
2
: to use or examine (something, such as a computer program) in order to evaluate performance
test-drive the new game
test-drive noun

Examples of test-drive in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
During my test-drive period, the Y managed 3.4 miles per kWh on short start-stop urban trips, but nearly 4.1 miles per kWh in general including more continuous driving and some motorway speeds. James Morris, Forbes, 19 Oct. 2024 Almost all of my most recent test-drive took place in bitter cold or snow. Josh Max, Forbes, 24 Sep. 2024 For now, officials are trying to fill current workforce needs while test-driving their ability to spin up new training programs. Alena Botros, Fortune, 17 June 2024 Thankfully, there are more than enough options to peruse and test-drive. Nikki Brown, StyleCaster, 12 Sep. 2024 See all Example Sentences for test-drive 

Word History

First Known Use

1950, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of test-drive was in 1950

Dictionary Entries Near test-drive

Cite this Entry

“Test-drive.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/test-drive. Accessed 5 Nov. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on test-drive

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