Definition

A metal frame attached to the front of a train that helps remove obstacles from the tracks.

Example

The train's cowcatcher cleared the fallen branches from the railway.

Conversation

Have you ever seen a train's cowcatcher up close?

No, I haven't! What does it look like?

It's this big metal grille at the front that clears the tracks.

That sounds interesting! I didn't know trains had that.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Cowcatcher → The word is formed from "cow" (from Old English "cu", meaning the domesticated animal) and "catcher" (from the verb "catch", meaning to seize or capture). A cowcatcher is a device on the front of a train designed to catch and clear obstacles, particularly cattle, from the tracks.

Memory Tip

Think of a device that 'catches' ('catcher') cows ('cow') to keep trains safe from obstacles.

Visually Confused Words