How Do You Spell THIRD RAIL?

Pronunciation: [θˈɜːd ɹˈe͡ɪl] (IPA)

The spelling of the word "third rail" is often confusing, as there are several variations of it. The correct spelling is /θərd reɪl/, with the "th" sound at the beginning and the "ai" diphthong in the second syllable. Some common misspellings include "thirdrale," "thrid rail," and "third raille." The third rail is an additional rail found alongside train tracks, which is used to provide electrical power to trains. It is important to use the correct spelling of this term for clarity and accuracy.

THIRD RAIL Meaning and Definition

1. The term "third rail" refers to an electrified rail system used in some railway networks to supply electricity to power trains. It consists of a metal conductor that runs parallel to the main train tracks and is positioned at a low level, typically close to ground level. The third rail is usually separated and insulated from the running rails, which act as the return path for the electrical current.

   The primary purpose of the third rail is to provide a direct current (DC) power supply to the electric trains. The system works by delivering electricity from a power source, such as a power station or substation, through a network of conductors to the third rail. Electric trains then draw power from this rail via a collector or shoe that makes contact with the energized conductor. The current is transferred to the train's motor, enabling it to operate and propel the train forward.

   Because the third rail carries potentially lethal levels of electrical current, it is often enclosed within a protective cover or housing to prevent accidental contact by people or objects. This safety measure minimizes the risks of electric shock or electrocution.

   The term "third rail" is also figuratively used to describe a controversial or sensitive topic, often one that holds significant potential for negative consequences or backlash if discussed openly. In this context, touching the "third rail" refers to addressing or engaging in a subject matter that is usually avoided due to the potentially explosive reactions it may provoke.

Common Misspellings for THIRD RAIL

• rhird rail
• fhird rail
• ghird rail
• yhird rail
• 6hird rail
• 5hird rail
• tgird rail
• tbird rail
• tnird rail
• tjird rail
• tuird rail
• tyird rail
• thurd rail
• thjrd rail
• thkrd rail
• thord rail
• th9rd rail
• th8rd rail
• thied rail

Etymology of THIRD RAIL

The term "third rail" originates from the field of electric railways. It refers to a high-voltage rail that provides electrical power to the train. The phrase was first used in the late 19th century when early electric rail systems were being developed. The first two rails carried the current that powered the train, while the third rail was an additional rail placed alongside or between the regular tracks and delivered the needed voltage. The term "third rail" is derived from the concept of adding this supplementary rail for electrical contact. Over time, the term "third rail" has been adopted metaphorically to describe a topic or issue that is sensitive, controversial, or prone to causing public outcry, just like touching the electrified third rail of a train would be dangerous.

Idioms with the word THIRD RAIL

• third rail A third rail is a topic or issue that is considered extremely controversial, sensitive, or dangerous to discuss or touch upon. It refers to the third rail in an electrified train track system, which carries a high voltage and is dangerous to come into contact with.

Similar spelling words for THIRD RAIL

• third world,
• third-rate,
• Third Reich.