Where the word "TAXI" come from ?

The name “TAXI” is obviously shortened from “TAXICAB”, which is derived from the two words: “TAXIMETER” and “CABRIOLET”. 

The TAXIMETER was invented in 1891 and is used to record distances and calculate the fare. 

The CABRIOLET refers to a horse drawn carriage where the driver stands in the back of the carriage.

The name “TAXIMETER” itself is derived from the Mid-Latin “TAXA”, meaning “Tax or Charge”.  The first documented use of the word “TAXICAB” was in March of 1907 in London. 

 (Picture Courtesy to Google.com)