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Cowcatcher: meaning, definitions and examples

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cowcatcher

 

[ ˈkaʊˌkætʃər ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

railroad equipment

A cowcatcher is a device mounted on the front of a locomotive to deflect obstacles on the tracks, particularly animals like cattle. Designed to prevent derailment and ensure smooth passage, it typically features a sloping design that guides larger objects away from the train's path. The cowcatcher is an essential safety feature in areas where trains might encounter livestock. Historically, it was a crucial innovation in the development of rail transportation, helping to minimize accidents involving animals.

Synonyms

cow pusher, fender, pilot.

Examples of usage

  • The engineer activated the cowcatcher when he saw cattle near the tracks.
  • Many older trains still have a traditional cowcatcher attached to the front.
  • The design of the cowcatcher has evolved over the years for better effectiveness.

Translations

Translations of the word "cowcatcher" in other languages:

🇵🇹 desgarrador

🇮🇳 गाय पकड़ने वाला

🇩🇪 Rindfang

🇮🇩 penangkap sapi

🇺🇦 захватник корів

🇵🇱 łapacz bydła

🇯🇵 牛捕り

🇫🇷 attrape-vache

🇪🇸 capturador de vacas

🇹🇷 sığır yakalayıcı

🇰🇷 소잡이

🇸🇦 ممسك الأبقار

🇨🇿 chyták krav

🇸🇰 chytač kráv

🇨🇳 牛捕捉器

🇸🇮 lovec krav

🇮🇸 kýr fanga

🇰🇿 сиыр ұстайтын

🇬🇪 კოვდავი ძრავა

🇦🇿 inək tutucu

🇲🇽 capturador de vacas

Etymology

The term 'cowcatcher' originated in the mid-19th century, derived from the words ‘cow’ and ‘catcher’. It refers to a specifically designed device used by railroads to push aside any obstacles on the track, particularly livestock that could potentially derail a train. The introduction of trains dramatically changed transportation, and as trains began to operate in rural areas, the presence of animals on the tracks became a significant concern. Consequently, this led to the need for an effective means of keeping trains safe while simultaneously protecting livestock. Earlier railway companies saw the cowcatcher as an integral part of locomotive design, fostering public confidence in safety measures. The evolution of the term and its design reflects the broader advancements in technology and safety protocols within the railway industry.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #41,080, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.