Re:Italo-English Translation

[Alexander Swaim <ars253@xxxxxxx>]

Regarding the term Spider (or Spyder) the Oxford English Dictionary has 
the first recorded use for the meaning "A lightly-built cart, trap, or 
phaeton with a high body and disproportionately large and slender 
wheels " appearing in the (London) Daily News in 1879. The term spider 
refers to the web-like appearance of the wheels.

Alex Swaim


> Date: Wed, 13 Aug 2003 21:04:16 +0930
> From: Paul Bayly <thebaylys@domain.elided>
> Subject: Italo-English Translation
>
> This will no doubt start an argument but here goes.
>
> While looking for an appropriate number plate/registration number for 
> a Spider, I found that the word was already in use on another vehicle 
> (non-Alfa).  So I started trying a few variations (Spida, Spieda, 
> Spied-er etc etc)  I don't wish to use 'spyder' or other variations 
> using the letter Y and I am allowed up to seven digits.
>
> It crossed my mind that I could use the Italian word for Spider.  
> Having only a basic grasp of Australian-English, and no multi lingual 
> skills at all, I consulted my trusty Italian dictionary which gives 
> the word "Ragno" for spider.
>
> 1.    Is this a correct translation for the animal/insect 'spider' ?
>
> 2.    Why isn't the car called 'Ragno' in Italy ?
>
> 3.    I've always assumed the 'spider' automotive term related to the 
> animal, maybe I'm off the mark ?
>
> Thanks
> Beatle
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