Railroad Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
railroad
[หreษชlrษสd ]
Definitions
transportation
A railroad is a system of transport consisting of a series of connected tracks along which trains travel.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| railroad |
Commonly used in American English to refer to a system of tracks for trains, or the companies that operate them.
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| railway |
Primarily used in British English to describe a system of tracks for trains, or the infrastructure and companies associated with it.
|
| train track |
Usually used to describe the physical rails on which trains run.
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Examples of usage
- The railroad played a crucial role in the expansion of the United States.
- She took the railroad to travel across the country.
impose
To railroad means to force something through quickly without proper consideration.
Synonyms
bulldoze, push through.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| railroad |
This duplicative term entry seems to be an error, as it is identical to the first term. See the first entry for context and examples. |
| push through |
This term describes the act of making something happen despite difficulties or resistance. It can be either neutral or slightly positive depending on context.
|
| bulldoze |
This term is used when someone is forcefully moving or destroying something, often used metaphorically for overpowering opposition. It generally has a negative connotation.
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Examples of usage
- They tried to railroad the new policy without consulting the team.
- She felt railroaded into making a decision.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The concept of using tracks for trains dates back to ancient Greece, with stone roads known as โwagonwaysโ.
- The first full-scale working railway steam locomotive, named 'Locomotion No 1', ran in 1825 in England, revolutionizing transport.
- In the United States, the Transcontinental Railroad was completed in 1869, connecting the east and west coasts for the first time.
Technology
- Railroads spurred advancements in engineering, including the creation of bridges and tunnels.
- Electric trains, introduced in the late 19th century, improved efficiency and reduced pollution compared to steam engines.
- The development of automated signals and control systems has enhanced railroad safety and management.
Cultural Impact
- Railroads played a significant role in shaping the American West, leading to new settlements and economic growth.
- In literature and music, trains are often symbols of adventure and freedom, as seen in many folk songs and novels.
- The famous route called the 'Orient Express' linked Paris to Istanbul, becoming a symbol of luxury travel in the early 20th century.
Economics
- Railroads are a key element in freight transport, moving goods efficiently across long distances at lower costs.
- The railroad industry significantly contributed to the industrial revolution by facilitating the movement of raw materials and finished products.
- In many countries, rail networks are crucial for the economy, enabling trade and reducing traffic congestion on roads.
Geography
- Railroads often follow natural pathways, such as valleys and riverbanks, optimizing routes for ease of travel.
- Countries with extensive rail networks, like Japan with its Shinkansen (bullet trains), display advanced transportation systems.
- Different countries utilize various gauges (widths of tracks), affecting train speed and compatibility between systems.
Origin of 'railroad'
The term 'railroad' originated in the early 19th century in England, where it referred to a track for steam vehicles. The first public railway in the world, the Stockton and Darlington Railway, opened in 1825. Railroads revolutionized transportation, facilitating the movement of goods and people across long distances. In the United States, the transcontinental railroad completed in 1869 connected the east and west coasts, further spurring economic growth and westward expansion.