sidetrack /ˈsaɪdˌtɹæk/noun 4verb 4forms 3 noun4 •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. •Any auxiliary railroad track, as differentiated from a siding, that runs adjacent to the main track. •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.Stay focused on the story; you keep getting lost in all of these little sidetracks. •A smaller tunnel or well drilled as an auxiliary off a main tunnel or well. verb4 •To divert (a locomotive or train) on to a lesser used track in order to allow other trains to pass.It was just after 5 p.m.; would the non-stop "Capitals Limited" come up next? It was due in at 5.30 and other trains are often side-tracked in its favour. — 1951 •To divert or distract (someone) from a main issue or course of action with an alternate or less relevant topic or activity; or, to use deliberate trickery or sly wordplay when talking to (a person) in order to avoid discussion of a subject.Sorry I'm late. I got sidetracked helping my friend move some furniture.The politician sidetracked the reporter with a story about duck hunting instead of a direct response to the question that was asked. •To deviate briefly from the topic at hand.Just to sidetrack a little bit from the subject I will explain my reasoning.To sidetrack for a moment, let me commend this team for their outstanding efforts. •To sideline; to push aside; to divert or distract from, reducing (something) to a secondary or subordinate position.The project was sidetracked in favor of a more popular program.He has sidetracked this debate for far too long. formssidetracked · sidetracking · sidetracks
