monorail

American  

[mon-uh-reyl] / ˈmɒn əˌreɪl /

noun

1. a single rail functioning as a track for wheeled vehicles, as railroad or other cars, balanced upon or suspended from it.

2. a railroad or other transportation system using such a rail.

3. a vehicle traveling on such a rail.

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monorail British  

/ ˈmɒnəʊˌreɪl /

noun

1. a single-rail railway, often elevated and with suspended cars

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Etymology

Origin of monorail

First recorded in 1895–1900; mono- + rail ¹

Example Sentences

The option eliminates a controversial monorail proposal through the Sepulveda Pass and bypasses a stop at the Getty Center, which had once been under consideration.

From Los Angeles Times

Lyster said the possibility of expanding the Disneyland monorail has not come up in “recent discussions,” since the newer options might turn out to be environmentally friendlier and less costly.

From Los Angeles Times

Meanwhile, chaos erupted on Tuesday after a monorail system, which was reportedly full far beyond its capacity, halted mid-track.

From BBC

The monorail in 1959 would hint at the possibility of new transit.

From Los Angeles Times

Ahead, I watch the vehicle I’m standing in — technically a shipping container — move through craters on a monorail.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• rail line
• railway
• subway