Elektriky

Elektriky is a Czech term with several related meanings, most often referring to electric trains in everyday language. The singular form električka denotes one such vehicle, while the unaccented plural elektriky (also written as električky in proper Czech) is used in informal speech. The word can also refer more generally to electrical equipment or to the field of electrical engineering (elektrika).

In rail transport, električky are electric multiple units or electric locomotives that operate on electrified railway lines. They provide suburban and regional services, connecting cities and towns with urban centers. Traction can be supplied by overhead lines or, in some networks, under-floor third-rail systems. The rolling stock typically includes modern low-floor EMUs and, in older corridors, electric locomotives or locomotive-hauled trains.

The history of electric suburban railway services in the Czech lands began in the early 20th century, as electrification projects aimed to improve urban and regional mobility. After modernization waves in the mid- to late 20th century and again in the 1990s and 2000s, many lines were upgraded with newer EMUs and better reliability. Today, električky form a core part of public transport in Prague and surrounding regions, routinely handling high daily passenger volumes and offering frequent, integrated services with other transit modes.

In usage beyond rail, elektrika refers to electricity and electrical engineering in general, while električka describes a specific electric train in common Czech speech. The term elektriky thus encompasses both a transportation context and broader references to electrical systems.