English Explanatory Dictionary

derail

English dictionary entry

Meanings

noun
  1. Synonym of derailer: A device placed on railway tracks in order to cause a train to derail.
  2. An instance of diverting a conversation or debate from its original topic.
verb
  1. To cause to come off the tracks.
  2. To come off the tracks.
  3. To deviate from the previous course or direction.
  4. To cause to deviate from a set course or direction.

Pronunciation

/ˌdəˈɹeɪ.əl/ /ˌdiːˈɹeɪ.əl/ en-us-derail.ogg

Word forms

derail derails derailing derailed

Etymology

From French dérailler (“to go off the rails”). Analyzable as de- + rail.

Synonyms

derailer unrail

Derived words

derailable derailer derailment
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