Associations to the word «Sidetrack»

SIDETRACK, noun. (rail transport) 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.

SIDETRACK, noun. (sometimes) Any auxiliary railroad track, as differentiated from a siding, that runs adjacent to the main track.

SIDETRACK, noun. (mining) A smaller tunnel or well drilled as an auxiliary off a main tunnel or well.

SIDETRACK, noun. 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.

SIDETRACK, verb. To divert (a locomotive) on to a lesser used track in order to allow other trains to pass.

SIDETRACK, verb. To divert or distract (someone) from a main issue or course of action with an alternate or less relevant topic or activity; or, to use deliberate trickery or sly wordplay when talking to (a person) in order to avoid discussion of a subject.

SIDETRACK, verb. To sideline; to push aside; to divert or distract from, reducing (something) to a secondary or subordinate position.

SIDETRACK, verb. (intransitive) To deviate briefly from the topic at hand.

SIDETRACK, noun. A short stretch of railroad track used to store rolling stock or enable trains on the same line to pass.

SIDETRACK, verb. Wander from a direct or straight course.