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

“I have come on the pilot engine from Petersburg,” I told him hurriedly.

From The International Spy Being the Secret History of the Russo-Japanese War by Upward, Allen

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

In this weary suspense, a quarter of an hour, half an hour, three quarters passed, and my watch shewed 3.30, and still not a sign of even the pilot engine was visible.

From By Right of Sword by Marchmont, Arthur W. (Arthur Williams)

A pilot engine preceded the train carrying the bell over the entire route.

From Burroughs' Encyclopaedia of Astounding Facts and Useful Information, 1889 by Burroughs, Barkham