Hot rods are typically old, classic or modern American cars with large engines modified for faster speed. The origin of the term “hot rod” is unclear. For example, some claim that the term “hot” refers to the vehicle being stolen. Other origin stories include replacing the engine’s camshaft or “rod” with a higher performance version.

The term has broadened to apply to other items that are modified for a particular purpose, such as “hot-rodded amplifier“.