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Trail: meaning, definitions and examples

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trail

 

[treɪl ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

hiking

A path or track made for walking, especially through a wild area such as a forest or mountain range. Trails are often marked with signs or colored markers to help hikers navigate.

Synonyms

footpath, path, track.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
trail

Usually refers to a marked route, often in a natural setting like a forest or mountain, for hiking or walking.

  • The trail through the forest was well-marked and easy to follow
  • We spent the weekend hiking a challenging mountain trail
path

A general term that can refer to any route or track made for walking or riding, and can be used in both natural and urban settings.

  • We took the path through the park to get to the museum
  • The garden has a lovely path winding through the flowers
track

Can refer to a rougher, often unpaved route used for walking, riding, or driving, commonly found in rural or less developed areas.

  • The dirt track led us to a remote village
  • The bicycle track was quite bumpy and challenging
footpath

Typically used to describe narrow pathways designated for pedestrians, often in urban or suburban areas.

  • The footpath along the river is perfect for evening strolls
  • They walked down the footpath to avoid the busy road

Examples of usage

  • The trail led us through the dense forest, crossing several streams along the way.
  • We followed the trail up the mountain, enjoying the breathtaking views of the valley below.
Context #2 | Noun

biking

A route or path for off-road biking, typically narrow and winding through natural terrain. Trails for biking can vary in difficulty and are often designed with obstacles and jumps.

Synonyms

bike path, off-road track.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
trail

A trail is usually a path through a natural environment like a forest, mountain, or park. It can be used for walking, hiking, or jogging.

  • We spent the weekend hiking along a scenic mountain trail.
  • The trail through the park is perfect for a morning jog.
bike path

A bike path is specifically designed for cyclists. It is usually paved and separated from motor vehicle traffic, making it suitable for both casual and commuting cyclists.

  • He rides his bike to work every day using the bike path.
  • The city has created a new bike path along the river.
off-road track

An off-road track is designed for more extreme biking or driving, often involving rough, unpaved terrain. It is popular among mountain bikers and off-road vehicle enthusiasts.

  • They took their ATVs down the off-road track for some weekend adventure.
  • Mountain bikers love the challenging off-road tracks in this area.

Examples of usage

  • The mountain biking trail offered a thrilling ride through the rugged landscape.
  • Heather enjoys the challenge of navigating the twisty trails on her bike.
Context #3 | Verb

following

To follow or track the path of something or someone. It can also refer to the act of leaving a visible mark or signs behind to be followed.

Synonyms

follow, pursue, track.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
trail

Typically used when leaving a series of signs or marks behind, or moving slowly behind someone or something.

  • The hiker left a trail of footprints in the snow
  • The puppy trailed behind its owner
follow

Used in a general sense for going behind someone or something, or obeying directions.

  • She decided to follow her friend to the new city
  • He always follows the instructions carefully
track

Used when keeping a record of something or closely monitoring progress or movements.

  • The fitness app helps track your daily steps
  • Wildlife experts track animal movements in the forest
pursue

Implies a more determined effort to catch or achieve something, often used for goals, careers, or romantic interests.

  • She plans to pursue a career in medicine
  • The detective pursued the suspect through the alleyway

Examples of usage

  • The detective trailed the suspect through the crowded streets of the city.
  • Her dress trailed behind her as she walked down the aisle.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'trail' comes from the Old French 'traille,' meaning ‘to pull or drag,’ as in dragging a path behind.
  • In early usage, it referred to a path marked by things that were pulled along, such as a cart or animal tracks.

Nature

  • Trails are essential for hikers and can vary from simple footpaths to complex routes designed for all terrains.
  • Many animal species follow trails for food, safety, or migration, marking paths through forests and fields.

Adventure and Recreation

  • Hiking trails are often categorized by difficulty level, helping adventurers choose the right path for their skill set.
  • Trail running is a popular sport that combines running with the natural beauty of outdoor trails.

Historical Significance

  • Historically, trails were vital for trade and exploration, allowing travelers to connect across vast distances.
  • The Oregon Trail was a key route in the 1800s for settlers heading westward in the United States.

Cultural Impact

  • In literature and film, trails often symbolize journeys or quests, representing the path one takes in life.
  • Many indigenous cultures have traditionally used trails for storytelling, connecting paths to historical events or spiritual beliefs.

Translations

Translations of the word "trail" in other languages:

🇵🇹 trilha

🇮🇳 पगडंडी

🇩🇪 Pfad

🇮🇩 jejak

🇺🇦 стежка

🇵🇱 szlak

🇯🇵 小道 (こみち)

🇫🇷 sentier

🇪🇸 sendero

🇹🇷 iz

🇰🇷 오솔길

🇸🇦 مسار

🇨🇿 stezka

🇸🇰 chodník

🇨🇳 小径 (xiǎojìng)

🇸🇮 pot

🇮🇸 stígur

🇰🇿 соқпақ

🇬🇪 ბილიკი

🇦🇿 iz

🇲🇽 sendero

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,647, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.