noun

sidetrack

Sidetrack (noun) means a second, relatively short length of track just to the side of a railroad track, joined to the main track by switches at one or both ends, used either for unloading freight, or to allow two trains on a same track to meet (opposite directions) or pass (same direction); a railroad siding.

noun

A second, relatively short length of track just to the side of a railroad track, joined to the main track by switches at one or both ends, used either for unloading freight, or to allow two trains on a same track to meet (opposite directions) or pass (same direction); a railroad siding.

Any auxiliary railroad track, as differentiated from a siding, that runs adjacent to the main track.

A smaller tunnel or well drilled as an auxiliary off a main tunnel or well.

An alternate train of thought, issue, topic, or activity, that is a deviation or distraction from the topic at hand or central activity, and secondary or subordinate in importance or effectiveness.

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Etymology

From side + track.

Rhymes for sidetrack

racetrack

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Frequently asked questions

What is the meaning of sidetrack?

"sidetrack" (noun) means a second, relatively short length of track just to the side of a railroad track, joined to the main track by switches at one or both ends, used either for unloading freight, or to allow two trains on a same track to meet (opposite directions) or pass (same direction); a railroad siding.

What are the different meanings of sidetrack?

"sidetrack" has 3 main meanings: 1. A second, relatively short length of track just to the side of a railroad track, joined to the main track by switches at one or both ends, used either for unloading freight, or to allow two trains on a same track to meet (opposite directions) or pass (same direction); a railroad siding; 2. Any auxiliary railroad track, as differentiated from a siding, that runs adjacent to the main track; 3. A smaller tunnel or well drilled as an auxiliary off a main tunnel or well.