# sidetrack

> English word · Noun · IPA /ˈsaɪdˌtɹæk/ · frequency rank #99,860

## Definitions
1. 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.
2. Any auxiliary railroad track, as differentiated from a siding, that runs adjacent to the main track.
3. A smaller tunnel or well drilled as an auxiliary off a main tunnel or well.
4. An alternate train of thought, issue, topic, or activity, that is a deviation or distraction from the topic at hand or central activity, and secondary or subordinate in importance or effectiveness.

## Etymology
From side + track.

## Source
Compiled from Wiktionary via kaikki.org (CC BY-SA). Data vintage: 2026-05-06.
Canonical page: https://plainspell.com/en/word/sidetrack