The Surprising Origins of "Trailer" and "Rack"

For modern landscapers, trailers and racks are indispensable tools for hauling goods and organizing equipment. But have you ever wondered where these common words came from? Their histories can be traced all the way back to the late 16th century.

The Origin of "Trailer"

Before trucks and tractors, goods were often hauled in carts pulled by animals. These early versions were sometimes called "trail-horses" or "trail-ponies."

The term "trailer" itself was first recorded in 1597 and is believed to derive from the Dutch word "traillen," which means "to drag." Over time, this evolved into the word we use today for the essential hauling equipment landscapers rely on.

The Origin of "Rack"

The word "rack," used to describe a framework for storing or displaying items, also appeared around 1597. Its origin is thought to be the Middle Dutch term "raken," meaning "to stretch." This likely referred to the stretched-out framework design used for holding supplies.

Today, racks are crucial for the safe and efficient transport of landscaping tools and materials, providing a secure and convenient way to store everything from trimmers to shovels.

From their roots in 16th-century Dutch, these simple words have evolved to describe two of the most essential tools in the modern landscaping profession, proving that even everyday items can have a rich and interesting history.