tailgate

1 of 2noun

/ˈteɪlɡeɪt/

Forms:tailgates

the rear door of a car, truck, or van that can be opened downwards when loading or unloading goods

A tailgate is the rear door or panel of a vehicle, typically on a truck or SUV, that can be opened to allow access to the cargo area. It is hinged at the bottom and can be lowered or swung open to make it easier to load and unload items. Some tailgates are also designed to support extra functions, such as serving as a workbench or providing additional storage space.

He opened the tailgate of his pickup truck to unload bags of soil for the garden.
The delivery driver lowered the tailgate of the van to unload packages for the office.
They sat on the tailgate of the SUV, enjoying a picnic lunch at the scenic overlook.
With the tailgate down, they loaded the camping gear into the back of the Jeep.
She closed the tailgate of her hatchback after loading groceries into the trunk.

Synonyms:

tailboard