Ambulance, a vehicle for the conveyance of the sick and wounded. During the wars of the French revolutionary period the term was applied to a field hospital on wheels. It was fitted up with cots, linen, and surgical tables, and was in charge of a surgeon. In the American Civil War the name was applied rather to large wagons used to gather up the wounded and to convey them to field hospitals. In many cities the ambulance service is admirably organized. If a fireman or other person is injured, a telephone call brings an automobile ambulance in an incredibly short time. The Red Cross Society maintains an ambulance service. Like the fire engine the ambulance has the right of way over ordinary vehicles. Rubber tires are of service in lessening the jolting which must be inflicted on patients while being conveyed to the hospital.