Sidetrack

//ˈsaɪdˌtɹæk// noun, verb

Definitions

Noun
  1. 1
    A second, relatively short length of track just to the side of a railroad track, joined to the main track by switches at one or both ends, used either for unloading freight, or to allow two trains on a same track to meet (opposite directions) or pass (same direction); a railroad siding.
  2. 2
    a short stretch of railroad track used to store rolling stock or enable trains on the same line to pass wordnet
  3. 3
    Any auxiliary railroad track, as differentiated from a siding, that runs adjacent to the main track. sometimes
  4. 4
    A smaller tunnel or well drilled as an auxiliary off a main tunnel or well.
  5. 5
    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.

    "Stay focused on the story; you keep getting lost in all of these little sidetracks."

Verb
  1. 1
    To divert (a locomotive or train) on to a lesser used track in order to allow other trains to pass.

    "It was just after 5 p.m.; would the non-stop "Capitals Limited" come up next? It was due in at 5.30 and other trains are often side-tracked in its favour."

  2. 2
    wander from a direct or straight course wordnet
  3. 3
    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.

    "Sorry I'm late. I got sidetracked helping my friend move some furniture."

  4. 4
    To sideline; to push aside; to divert or distract from, reducing (something) to a secondary or subordinate position.

    "The project was sidetracked in favor of a more popular program."

  5. 5
    To deviate briefly from the topic at hand. intransitive

    "Just to sidetrack a little bit from the subject I will explain my reasoning."

Etymology

Etymology 1

From side + track.

Etymology 2

From side + track.

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