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

Her goal was to simply grab random words and throw fits over them, to derail the proceedings with her spoiled princess routine.

Read more on Salon

Others say that while a deal may be delayed, it likely won’t be derailed.

Read more on Barron's

She said she hoped to earn celestial support to fend off worries that visa restrictions could derail her dream of studying at New York University.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

In two days, Beijing has unleashed a barrage of actions that threaten to derail a fragile status quo with Washington over trade and other issues, with a particular focus on semiconductors.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

And he helped remove the stigma from a disorder, which left untreated, threatened to derail the lives of countless people.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

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