derail
verb (used with object)
to cause (a train, streetcar, etc.) to run off the rails of a track.
had derailed
-
past perfectof derail.past perfect
Used to express a completed action that took place before another specific past action occurred.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Concerns around fuel costs — the second-highest cost for airlines after labor — had derailed Delta Air Lines’
From MarketWatch ● Jul. 15, 2026
James Burrow, who was on the derailed service, said "there was a flash and a bang," before staff quickly informed passengers the train had derailed.
From BBC ● Nov. 3, 2025
A train had derailed at Union Station, and nurses and doctors were needed.
From Los Angeles Times ● Sep. 11, 2024
In a statement posted on Telegram, Sergei Aksyonov said that wagons loaded with grain had derailed and no one was injured.
From Reuters ● May 18, 2023
These stories spread the false claim that Slave Power agents had derailed the President’s train and killed his son, Bennie.
From "American Spirits" by Barb Rosenstock
