The term “Black Maria” is a phrase that may be unfamiliar to many people. However, it has a long history and has been used in a variety of contexts. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of Black Maria, its origin, associations, synonyms, antonyms, and provide examples of its usage in sentences.
Definitions
Black Maria is a term that refers to a police van or a prison wagon used to transport prisoners. It is also known as a “paddy wagon” or a “meat wagon.” The term is often used to describe a vehicle that is used to transport prisoners from one location to another.
Origin
The origin of Black Maria is not entirely clear. However, it is believed to have originated in the United States in the late 19th century. The term is said to have been coined by the police in New York City, who used the vehicles to transport prisoners to and from the courthouse.
Meaning in different dictionaries
The meaning of Black Maria can vary slightly depending on the dictionary used. According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, Black Maria is defined as “a police van for transporting prisoners.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines it as “a vehicle used to transport prisoners, especially one with barred windows.”
Associations
Black Maria is often associated with law enforcement and the criminal justice system. It is also associated with the transportation of prisoners and the confinement of individuals who have been arrested or convicted of a crime.
Synonyms
There are several synonyms for Black Maria, including paddy wagon, prison wagon, and meat wagon. These terms are all used to describe a vehicle used to transport prisoners.
Antonyms
There are no direct antonyms for Black Maria, as it is a specific term used to describe a type of vehicle. However, terms that are opposite in meaning to the associations of Black Maria may include freedom, liberation, and release.
The same root words
There are no root words associated with Black Maria, as it is a term that has evolved over time and has a specific meaning in the context of law enforcement.
Example Sentences
- The police officer loaded the suspects into the Black Maria and drove them to the station.
- The Black Maria pulled up outside the courthouse, and the prisoners were escorted inside.
- The protesters were arrested and put into the Black Maria, which drove them away from the demonstration.
- The sound of the Black Maria’s siren echoed through the streets as it made its way to the prison.
- The judge sentenced the defendant to five years in prison, and he was taken away in the Black Maria.