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Shunting Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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shunting

[หˆสƒสŒntษชล‹ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

railway operation

Shunting refers to the process of moving railway cars or locomotives from one track to another to facilitate the organization of train traffic. It is an essential part of the operation of railway networks, allowing trains to be assembled and disassembled efficiently.

Synonyms

maneuvering, marshalling, switching.

Examples of usage

  • The shunting of freight cars is crucial for timely deliveries.
  • Shunting can often create delays in passenger service.
  • The yard crew specialized in shunting operations.
Context #2 | Verb

to move trains

To shunt is to move a train or a train car from one track to another, generally within a yard or at a station. This action can involve various maneuvers to ensure trains are properly arranged for their intended routes.

Synonyms

redirect, switch, transfer.

Examples of usage

  • The engineer had to shunt the cars to clear the main track.
  • They often shunt trains at night to minimize disruption.
  • He shunted the locomotive into the maintenance bay.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Transportation

  • Shunting is essential in rail operations, allowing for efficient train management and the efficient flow of rail networks.
  • It can involve complex maneuvers where multiple train cars are rearranged, often in goods yards or depots.
  • Modern technology has even automated some shunting processes to help improve safety and speed.

Healthcare

  • In medical contexts, shunting refers to a surgical procedure that redirects bodily fluids to improve function, like in heart diseases.
  • A common example is a shunt used to drain excess fluid from the brain, helping to relieve pressure.
  • Shunting can also apply to the movement of blood within the cardiovascular system, ensuring proper circulation.

Engineering

  • In electrical engineering, a shunt is a device used to measure electric current by producing a voltage drop.
  • Shunting can also refer to the management of vehicle traffic, where vehicles are redirected to avoid congestion.
  • The concept of shunting in fluid dynamics involves redirecting flow in pipes to enhance efficiency and performance.

Pop Culture

  • The usage of shunting in films and literature often symbolizes change and transition, especially in stories related to travel or journey.
  • In video games, players sometimes encounter 'shunting' mechanics where characters or objects must be moved to solve puzzles.
  • There are instances in music where 'shunting' is used metaphorically to describe transitions between different phases or sections of a song.

Origin of 'shunting'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'shunt' originated from the word 'shunt,' which means to turn aside or divert, first appearing in the late 19th century.
  • In the context of trains, it refers to the process of moving rolling stock from one track to another, which has been used since railways became widespread.
  • The word might also trace back to Middle English, where it meant 'to cause to move aside.'

The term 'shunting' is derived from the verb 'shunt', which has its origins in the early 19th century, likely from a dialectal English term. Early railway systems required methods to efficiently manage the extensive tracks and carriages. As rail transport progressed, so did the complexity of operations, leading to the development of specific technical language including 'shunting' to facilitate communication among train operators and logisticians. The concept of shunting became formalized with the establishment of standardized operations in train yards, further cementing its importance in the railway industry. The word has also been adopted in various contexts related to the movement and management of objects in different fields.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,765, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.