switch engine

noun

, Railroads.

1. a locomotive for switching rolling stock in a yard.

Word History and Origins

Origin of switch engine¹

An Americanism dating back to 1865–70

Example Sentences

At the end of the tunnel a car that looks like a limousine turned switch-engine is waiting on a siding for the boss of the job.

From Project Gutenberg

A switch engine letting off steam drowned the last words, and there was no applause.

From Project Gutenberg

For the past week every switch engine in the house has been out.

From Project Gutenberg

His face grew serious as he listened to me, and I saw him watching a switch-engine through the window.

From Project Gutenberg

At a grade crossing, a switch-engine overturned his craft, about as gently as such an accident could be accomplished.

From Project Gutenberg