chauffer

A chauffeur is a person employed to drive a passenger for a private client or organization, typically as a professional driver for a private car or limousine. Chauffeurs are often hired by individuals, families, corporations, or hospitality services to provide reliable, discreet transportation and a high level of customer service.

The word comes from the French chauffeur, meaning "driver." English usage dates from the early days of motor vehicles. In English, the noun is usually spelled chauffeur; the form chauffer is generally regarded as a misspelling, though it appears occasionally in informal writing. In French, chauffeuse is the feminine form.

Duties typically include operating the vehicle safely and efficiently, maintaining cleanliness, planning routes, assisting with luggage, and attending to passengers' needs. A chauffeur may be responsible for vehicle upkeep, refueling, and coordinating schedules, as well as ensuring privacy and security for clients, especially in corporate or VIP contexts.

Employment may require a professional driver's license and a clean driving record, background checks, and sometimes security training. In some regions, commercial licensing or special endorsements are required to operate certain vehicles or to work for licensed limousine or transportation companies.

The term is gender-neutral in English, and both men and women serve as chauffeurs. The French feminine form chauffeuse is occasionally used in English, though less common. See also limousine service, private driver, and chauffeur-driven car.