The meaning of DERAIL is to cause to run off the rails. How to use derail in a sentence.

DERAIL definition: to cause (a train, streetcar, etc.) to run off the rails of a track. See examples of derail used in a sentence.

To derail something such as a plan or a series of negotiations means to prevent it from continuing as planned.

The two primary emotions that derail rational decision-making are greed and fear.

Definition of derail verb in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.

1. to cause (a train, streetcar, etc.) to run off the rails of a track. 2. to cause to be deflected from a purpose or direction, permanently or temporarily: A skiing accident derailed her dancing career. 3. to …

de•rail /diˈreɪl/ v. Rail Transport (of a train, etc.) to (cause to) run off the rails of a track: [no object] When the train derailed it was going at 100 mph. [~ + object] The train was derailed when it sped off the curve.

Dec 14, 2025 · derail (plural derails) Synonym of derailer: A device placed on railway tracks in order to cause a train to derail.

Apr 16, 2025 · Explore the comprehensive definition, etymology, and usage of "derail," including real-world examples and cultural references.

Mistakes by engineers or flaws in the track can derail a train or trolley, sending it off the rails and sometimes injuring the passengers. You can also use the verb derail figuratively, to mean "hinder …