COWCATCHER Meaning and
Definition
-
Cowcatcher, also known as a cattle guard or pilot, refers to a device or structure found on the front of a locomotive or other similar heavy machinery. It is primarily designed to deflect or clear obstacles from the tracks, such as animals or debris, while minimizing damage or disruption to the machine.
Typically comprised of a sturdy metal frame positioned low to the ground, the cowcatcher extends horizontally in front of the locomotive. It often incorporates a series of bars or beams that gradually taper downward and outward, forming a triangular or wedge-like shape. This configuration assists in pushing objects, especially low-lying ones like animals, away from the train's path.
The name "cowcatcher" emerged from its original function, which was to prevent livestock, particularly cows, from straying onto the tracks and causing accidents. As the locomotive approaches an obstacle, the cowcatcher creates a gentle barrier, directing the object to either side of the locomotive's path.
Not limited to protecting against animals, the cowcatcher also helps redirect debris, like branches or rocks, away from the wheels and undercarriage of the locomotive. By doing so, it safeguards the train's mechanical components and prevents any potential derailments or accidents that may result from collisions.
Although primarily associated with trains, the term cowcatcher can also refer to similar protective structures on other types of heavy machinery, such as bulldozers or tractors, serving to clear obstacles from their path.
Common Misspellings for COWCATCHER
- xowcatcher
- vowcatcher
- fowcatcher
- dowcatcher
- ciwcatcher
- ckwcatcher
- clwcatcher
- cpwcatcher
- c0wcatcher
- c9wcatcher
- coqcatcher
- coacatcher
- coscatcher
- coecatcher
- co3catcher
- co2catcher
- cowxatcher
- cowvatcher
- cowcatcherr
- cowcatcherz
- Coowcacher
Etymology of COWCATCHER
The word "cowcatcher" is derived from the combination of the words "cow" and "catcher". It refers to the structure at the front of a locomotive or train designed to deflect obstacles, such as cows or other large animals, from the tracks.
During the early days of railroads, animals, particularly cows, would often wander onto the tracks and cause accidents. To prevent such incidents, a device was developed that would push the animals aside and keep them from derailing the train. This device came to be known as a "cowcatcher" due to its function of catching or deflecting cows.
The term "cowcatcher" originated in the United States in the mid-1800s, coinciding with the expansion of railroads across the country. It is still used today, although the actual design and function of these devices have changed over time.
Similar spelling word for COWCATCHER
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
