Definition

A person or vehicle that moves railway cars around in a yard or station to prepare them for a train or to rearrange them.

Example

The shunter skillfully moved the train cars into position for the next departure.

Conversation

Did you see that shunter at the train yard yesterday?

Yeah, it was moving those cars around like it was nothing!

I find it fascinating how a shunter can make such a big difference in operations.

Absolutely! It’s amazing how they keep everything organized.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

**Shunter** → The word 'shunter' originates from the verb 'shunt', which is derived from the dialectal English 'shunt' (meaning to move or turn aside). The suffix '-er' indicates a person who performs an action. Therefore, a 'shunter' is a person who moves or turns aside trains or railway cars.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who 'moves aside' ('shunt') things on a railway — that's why a 'shunter' is a person who does this.

Visually Confused Words