Search results for 'rail':

rail¹ noun 1 a bar, usually a horizontal one, supported by vertical posts, forming a fence or barrier. 2 a horizontal bar used to hang things on • a picture rail. 3 either of a pair of lengths of metal, usually steel, forming a track for the wheels of a train, tramcar or other vehicle. 4 the railway as a means of travel or transport • go by rail. 5 said of a door, wooden framework, etc: a horizontal section in panelling or framing. 6 (the rails) the fence which forms the inside barrier of a racecourse. 7 naut the capping part of bulwarks. verb (railed, railing) 1 to provide with rails. 2 (usually rail something in or off) to enclose (eg a space) within a rail or rails. off the rails 1 mad; eccentric. 2 not functioning or behaving normally or properly. 3 disorganized.
ETYMOLOGY: 13c: from French reille iron rod, from Latin regula staff, rod.

rail² verb (railed, railing) intrans (usually rail at or against something or someone) to complain or criticize it or them abusively or bitterly. railer noun. railing adj, noun. railingly adverb.
ETYMOLOGY: 15c: from French railler to deride.

rail³ noun any of several birds which usually live near water and have short necks and wings and long legs, especially the water-rail, corncrake or coot.
ETYMOLOGY: 15c: from French raale.