Carriage tops can be referred to in many ways, depending on the context in which they are mentioned. Some synonyms for this term include coach roofs, vehicle ceilings, top covers, hood covers, overhead shades, and roof canopies. These words are all variations that describe the same idea, a cover over the top of a carriage, typically to protect passengers or cargo. Depending on the region, language or time period, other synonyms might be used, including buggy tops, brougham hoods, and trap covers. Regardless of what they are called, carriage tops have played an important role in transportation history, and remain prominent in some modern vehicles to this day.