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Word: sidetrack (lookup usage) (lookup stats)


Meaning:

Noun:

  • An alternate train of thought, issue, topic, or activity, that is a deviation or distraction from the topic at hand or central activity, and secondary or subordinate in importance or effectiveness.
  • mining A smaller tunnel or well drilled as an auxiliary off a main tunnel or well.
  • rail transport A second, relatively short length of railroad siding.
  • (sometimes) Any auxiliary railroad track, as ''differentiated'' from a siding, that runs adjacent to the main track.

Source: Wiktionary | Src Info »

Verb:

  • intransitive To deviate briefly from the topic at hand.
  • To divert (a locomotive) on to a lesser used track in order to allow other trains to pass.
  • To divert or distract (someone) from a main issue or course of action with an alternate or less relevant topic or activity; or, to use deliberate trickery or sly wordplay when talking to (a person) in order to avoid discussion of a subject.
  • To sideline; to push aside; to divert or distract from, reducing (something) to a secondary or subordinate position.

Source: Wiktionary | Src Info »