Definition & Meaning of "siding"

What is a "siding"?

A siding is a short section of track that branches off from the main railway line, allowing trains to be temporarily stored or for trains to pass one another. Siding tracks are typically used to park freight cars or allow faster trains to overtake slower ones. They are commonly found at stations, storage areas, or along less busy stretches of track, providing flexibility for train movements without disrupting the main flow of traffic. Sidings can also be used to load and unload goods or to service trains before they continue on their journey.