derail
derail Lexical Profile
derail Game Scores & Validity
• verb
To obstruct, divert, or ruin the normal progress of a plan, negotiation, career, or process.
"An unexpected budget cut threatened to derail the entire research project before it could begin."
To cause a train, streetcar, or other rail vehicle to leave its tracks accidentally or intentionally, or to run off the rails.
"Heavy snowfall and ice on the mountain pass caused the freight train to derail."
• noun
A mechanical safety device attached to a railway track designed to guide unauthorized or runaway rolling stock off the rails to prevent collisions.
"The yard crew installed a portable derail on the siding to protect the maintenance workers."
• Rhymes for derail
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Borrowed in the mid-19th century from French dérailler, formed from the prefix dé- ('off') and rail ('railway track'), which was itself borrowed from English rail.