derail

American  

[dee-reyl] / diˈreɪl /

verb (used with object)

1. to cause (a train, streetcar, etc.) to run off the rails of a track.

2. to cause to fail or become deflected from a purpose; reduce or delay the chances for success or development of.

   Being drafted into the army derailed his career for two years.

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verb (used without object)

1. (of a train, streetcar, etc.) to run off the rails of a track.

2. to become derailed; go astray.

noun

1. a track device for derailing rolling stock in an emergency.

derail British  

/ dɪˈreɪl /

verb

1. to go or cause to go off the rails, as a train, tram, etc

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noun

1. Also called: derailer.  a device designed to make rolling stock or locomotives leave the rails to avoid a collision or accident

Other Word Forms

• derailment noun

Etymology

Origin of derail

First recorded in 1840–50; from French dérailler, equivalent to dé- negative prefix + -railler, verbal derivative of rail “bar, beam” (from English ); de- rail ¹

Example Sentences

Five people have been injured after a train derailed in southern Switzerland, in an incident that could have been caused by an avalanche, police say.

From BBC

A regional train derailed early on Monday in southern Switzerland, police said, injuring five people with more than two dozen evacuated.

From Barron's

The idea, which took root quickly among users and influencers, is that America is a tough place to survive because a single stroke of bad luck can derail your life.

From BBC

“A lot of us are feeling very derailed.”

From The Wall Street Journal

“If there are fewer rate cuts because the economy is healthy, that won’t derail the U.S. equity market.”

From Barron's

Related Words

• block
• deter
• filibuster
• hamper
• hinder
• impede
• interfere
• stall
• stonewall
• thwart