Chair car

nounStandard termRailroad

A passenger railcar equipped with reclining individual seats rather than standard benches.

A passenger car designed for long-distance daytime or overnight travel without the expense of a sleeper berth. The interior features rows of padded, reclining armchairs that offer more comfort and legroom than a standard commuter coach. On historic long-haul trains, these cars provided a budget-friendly alternative to Pullman sleeping accommodations.

Heard on the job

We've two sleepers on the rear and a packed chair car right behind the diner.

Also heard as

  • coach