pilot engine

American  

noun

1. a locomotive sent on ahead of a railroad train to see that the way is clear and the track safe.

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pilot engine British  

noun

1. a locomotive that leads one or more other locomotives at the head of a train of coaches or wagons

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Etymology

Origin of pilot engine

First recorded in 1830–40

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

pilot engine

A special pilot engine, tugging three cars full of Secret Service agents and railroad detectives, pulled out five minutes ahead of the presidential special to scout out possible sabotage along the 133-mile run.

From Time Magazine Archive

They were wholly untroubled with shyness, and loudly announced that Tom was a Midland express from Glasgow, and Bill a pilot engine.

From The Daughter Pays by Reynolds, Mrs. Baillie

If word reached town that a bridge was down, The imperious summons rang — 'Come out with the pilot engine sharp, And away with the flying gang.'

From The Man from Snowy River by Paterson, A. B. (Andrew Barton)

A pilot engine has gone before to keep the way clear. 

From Railway Adventures and Anecdotes extending over more than fifty years by Various

Under Mr. Van Britt's directions the engineer and fireman of the pilot engine brought tools and the break was repaired.

From The Wreckers by Lynde, Francis