pileup

or pile-up

[ pahyl-uhp ]

noun

1. a massive collision of several or many moving vehicles.
2. an accumulation, as of work, chores, or bills.
3. a rough or disorderly falling of people upon one another, as in a football game.

Word History and Origins

Origin of pileup¹

First recorded in 1825–35; noun use of verb phrase pile up

Example Sentences

They think a pileup of dust could have formed between the planet’s orbit and the sun.

From Science News For Students

They might even get to take part in one of cycling’s most prestigious and celebrated events, the Giro d’Italia, where this year the numerous pileups were merely a prelude to the “horrific conditions” in the mountains.

From Outside Online

The unprecedented pileup could strain global supply chains that are already stressed by the coronavirus pandemic.

From Washington Post

Even light ice accumulations can cause significant travel disruptions, as with the deadly 100-car pileup in Fort Worth on Thursday morning.

From Washington Post

Coach John Harbaugh was angry at the officials, believing that Steelers defenders illegally stalled during the pileup of players following a second-and-goal running play.

From Washington Post

Related Words

• accumulation