trail
trail Lexical Profile
trail Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A beaten path or marked route through a forest, mountainous region, or other wilderness area.
"We hiked the steep trail leading up to the summit."
A mark, trace, or series of signs left behind by someone or something that has passed.
"The suspect left a trail of muddy footprints leading down the hallway."
• verb
To drag or be dragged along the ground or another surface.
"The bride's long lace dress trailed elegantly behind her as she walked down the aisle."
To lag behind or be losing in a game, race, or competition.
"The home team trailed by ten points at halftime but managed to secure a victory."
To follow the track, scent, or signs of an animal, person, or object.
"The detective trailed the suspect through the crowded city streets."
• Rhymes for trail
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
From Middle English 'trailen', borrowed from Old French 'trailler' (to tow, drag), ultimately from Vulgar Latin '*tragulare' (to drag) and Latin 'tragula' (a dragnet).
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.