railroad
railroad Lexical Profile
railroad Game Scores & Validity
• noun
American A permanent track consisting of steel rails fixed to ties, providing a path for trains or equipment drawn by locomotives.
"The construction of the transcontinental railroad fundamentally transformed the economy and geography of the United States."
American A commercial organization or corporate entity that operates a system of tracks and trains.
"He worked as an engineer for the regional railroad for over thirty years before retiring with a full pension."
• verb
To push or force (a measure, legislation, or person) hastily or unfairly through a process without providing adequate time for consideration or debate.
"The controversial zoning bill was railroaded through the city council late at night before the public could voice their opposition."
American To convict or send (a person) to prison on false charges or without a fair trial.
"The defense attorney passionately argued that his client was being railroaded by an overly zealous prosecution team."
Word Nuance & Usage
In American English, 'railroad' is the standard term for a train system, whereas British English strongly prefers the term 'railway'.
• Rhymes for railroad
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Coined in the late 18th century (circa 1770s) from 'rail' and 'road', originally referring to tracks laid down for horse-drawn carts in mines long before the invention of the steam locomotive.
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.