Pronunciation: [də ɹˈe͡ɪld] (IPA) 
The word "de railed" is spelled with a space between the two words. Its IPA phonetic transcription is /dɪˈreɪld/. The word "de" is pronounced as /dɪ/, which sounds like "duh" without the "h" sound. Meanwhile, "railed" is pronounced as /reɪld/, which sounds like "rayld" with a long "a" sound. Together, the word means that something or someone has gone off track or off course, as in a train that has come off the railroad tracks.
The term "derailed" is primarily used as a verb and is derived from the noun "rail," which refers to a metal bar or track used for trains. When something is said to be "derailed," it means that it has been diverted or taken off its intended course or track, usually in a sudden or unintended manner.
In a literal sense, "derailed" is often used to describe a situation where a train or any other vehicle is thrown off its tracks due to an accident, mechanical failure, or other unforeseen circumstances. When a train derails, it can result in disruption, damage, and potentially endanger the lives of passengers or nearby individuals.
In a metaphorical sense, "derailed" can be used to describe a situation, plan, or project that has gone askew, deviating from its originally intended path or objectives. This can occur due to various factors, such as unexpected setbacks, a lack of focus or direction, or the appearance of unforeseen obstacles that hinder progress. When something is "derailed" in this sense, it typically implies a loss of control or failure to achieve desired outcomes.
Overall, the term "derailed" encompasses both literal and figurative meanings, indicating a deviation or disruption from an initial or anticipated course or trajectory.
The term "derailed" originates from the combination of two words: "de-" and "rail".
The prefix "de-" is derived from Latin and often acts as a negating or reversing prefix. It indicates the opposite or absence of something. In this case, it suggests the reversal or deviation from the normal course.
The word "rail" comes from Middle English "rayl", which means a bar or rod. It can be traced back to Old French "rei(l)" and Latin "regula", both of which mean rule. In the context of train tracks, a rail refers to the metal track upon which trains run.
Therefore, when something is "derailed", it means it has gone off-track, deviated or been thrown off course from the normal or expected path, just as a train would go off the rails.
