rail

/reɪl/
noun
  1. A long, thin piece of metal or wood that forms part of a track for trains or other vehicles.
    • Workers are replacing a damaged section of rail on the track.
    • The old wooden rail was worn out from years of use.
    • The train ran smoothly along the steel rail.
  2. A horizontal bar used as a fence, barrier, or support, such as on a staircase or balcony.
    • The wooden fence had a top rail that was painted white.
    • Hold onto the rail when you go down the stairs.
    • She leaned over the balcony rail to see the garden below.
  3. The system of transportation using trains; railways.
    • Many people prefer to travel by rail for long distances.
    • Rail is often cheaper than flying for short trips.
    • The government is investing more money in rail services.
  4. A bird with long legs and a short tail that lives near water, such as a marsh hen.
    • Birdwatchers came to the marsh hoping to see a rare rail.
    • We spotted a rail hiding in the reeds by the pond.
    • The rail is a shy bird that is hard to see in the wild.
Synonyms
verb
  1. To complain or protest strongly about something.
    • He spent the whole evening railing about the poor service at the restaurant.
    • The citizens railed against the new tax law at the town meeting.
    • She railed at the unfair treatment she received at work.
  2. To provide or enclose something with a rail or rails.
    • The workers railed the new balcony for safety.
    • They decided to rail the garden to keep the dogs out.
    • We need to rail off the construction area for protection.
Antonyms
What does "rail" mean? | whatsthatwordmean | whatsthatwordmean