Definition of derail

The word "derail" has its origins in the mid-19th century in the context of rail transportation. Initially, it referred to the act of diverting a train from its intended track, often due to measures taken to prevent a collision or accident. This sense of the word comes from the French phrase "dérail", which means "to take off the rails". Over time, the meaning of "derail" expanded to include the sense of disrupting or diverting something from its intended course, such as a plan, a project, or a situation. This broader sense of the word is often used figuratively, suggesting a loss of control or a deviation from the expected path. Despite its origins in rail transportation, the word "derail" has become a common term in many contexts, reflecting its versatility and widespread use.