derail

[dee-reyl]

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.

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

/ dɪˈreɪl /

verb

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

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of derail¹

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

The author argues that political scandals have fundamentally changed in their capacity to derail candidates.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

We immediately booked a scouting trip to verify what we had read, and more importantly to be on the lookout for red flags that might derail any thoughts of relocation.

Read more on MarketWatch

While some programs have been derailed by patient deaths, others have simply failed to find demand.

Read more on Barron's

The case has also derailed the aspiring career of the viral hitmaker.

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Yet from the time Philadelphia went 21-0 up their offence derailed spectacularly - with four straight punts, a missed field goal and then a fumble handing chance after chance to the Cowboys.

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Related Words

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