rail
rail
reɪl
reil
British pronunciation
/ɹˈe‍ɪl/

Definition & Meaning of "rail"in English

Rail
01

a system of tracks for trains

rail definition and meaning
example
Examples
The goods were transported by rail across the country.
Passenger travel by rail has increased in recent years.
02

a steel track on which trains run

Wiki
rail definition and meaning

What is a "rail"?

A rail is a long, narrow strip of steel that forms part of the track system on which trains travel. Rails are laid down in parallel lines and are fixed to the ground with ties or sleepers, creating a stable and smooth surface for train wheels. They are designed to support the weight of trains and guide them along the track, ensuring safe and efficient movement. Rails are essential components of railroads and are typically made from strong, durable steel to withstand the heavy loads and constant wear from train traffic.

example
Examples
The rail was shiny and smooth, allowing trains to travel quickly.
Workers inspected the rail for any signs of wear or damage.
03

any of numerous small wading birds in the family Rallidae, characterized by short wings and long toes for walking on soft mud

What is a "rail"?

A rail is a fascinating bird that inhabits marshes and wetlands around the world. With their unique body structure, they are well-adapted to live in these environments. Rails are characterized by their long, slender bodies, short wings, and strong legs, which allow them to navigate through dense vegetation and wade in shallow waters. They have a secretive nature, often hiding among the reeds and grasses, making them challenging to spot. Rails are skilled swimmers and agile runners, able to move quickly and gracefully across various terrains. Their diet consists of small invertebrates, seeds, and plant matter, which they forage for while probing the muddy ground or picking food from vegetation. Known for their distinctive calls, rails communicate with a variety of vocalizations, from sharp squawks to melodic trills. These remarkable birds play an important role in the wetland ecosystems they call home, contributing to the overall biodiversity and functioning of these habitats.

example
Examples
Rails often hide in dense vegetation near ponds.
A water rail was spotted in the marshland.
04

a single horizontal bar, usually made of wood or metal

example
Examples
The fence consisted of a single rail across each section.
They replaced the broken rail in the backyard fence.
to rail
01

to strongly and angrily criticize or complain about something

Intransitive: to rail about sth | to rail against sth | to rail at sb
to rail definition and meaning
example
Examples
Despite the improvements, the customer continued to rail about the service quality.
Maria tends to rail against changes in the workplace, expressing her discontent openly.
02

to transport or move items using a railway system

Transitive: to rail sth somewhere
to rail definition and meaning
example
Examples
The mining company decided to rail raw materials directly from the extraction site to the processing plant.
The logistics manager planned to rail the bulk of the inventory from the warehouse to the distribution center.
03

to use a railway system as a mode of transportation

Intransitive: to rail | to rail somewhere
example
Examples
Instead of driving, they decided to rail from the city to the countryside for a weekend getaway.
The daily commuter prefers to rail to work, avoiding the stress of traffic congestion.
04

to install or furnish with a protective barrier or structure typically made of rails

Transitive: to rail a space
example
Examples
The architect decided to rail the balcony to enhance safety and aesthetics.
The construction team will rail the staircase to meet building code requirements.
05

to surround or secure an area by installing railings or a barrier made of rails

Transitive: to rail a place
example
Examples
The park administration decided to rail the playground to enhance child safety.
To protect the garden, the homeowners opted to rail the perimeter with a decorative metal fence.
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