wrecking car

noun

, Railroads.

1. a car that is equipped as a wrecker. Compare wrecker ( def 2 ).

Word History and Origins

Origin of wrecking car¹

An Americanism dating back to 1860–65

Example Sentences

It consisted of a wrecking car, a caboose, and one coach with tender and engine.

From Project Gutenberg

"If you will take a bit of help from an outsider, I think we needn't wait for the wrecking-car," he said to the dubious trainmen.

From Project Gutenberg

This occurred under the lee of a cliff, so we went in search with wrecking car the next day.

From Project Gutenberg

Here, men,” he called to his assistants on the wrecking car, “fetch this fellow into the shanty yonder.

From Project Gutenberg

The best thing to do is to get a wrecking car here; meantime, the trestle should be guarded.

From Project Gutenberg