sidetrack

Definition

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.

Etymology

From side + track.

Example Sentences

• "Stay focused on the story; you keep getting lost in all of these little sidetracks."
• ""However, I am down a side-track. What I wanted to say to you is that you must not take Bolsover's little spirit circus too seriously.""