Hackmen were historically known as men who drove hackney carriages, also called hackney coaches or simply hacks, for hire. A hackney carriage driver was also often referred to as a cabman or a coachman. Modern synonyms for hackmen are taxi drivers or chauffeurs. The term hackman has also been replaced in some places by the term "hackney driver" or "hackney operator". In some cases, the term "black car service" is also used to refer to a similar profession, typically providing more upscale or executive transportation options. Regardless of terminology, these service providers have long been a vital component of urban transportation infrastructure, providing reliable transportation for diverse groups of people.