Definition

The process of moving railway cars or trains to different tracks or arrangements, often to organize or prepare them for transport.

Example

The shunting of the freight cars took longer than expected due to the heavy rain.

Conversation

Did you see how they did the shunting at the train station yesterday?

Yeah, it was impressive how quickly they moved the cars around.

I wonder how often they need to do that kind of shunting.

Probably quite a bit, especially during busy hours.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

To move or push something from one place to another, often in a way that is not straightforward or direct.

Example

The workers were shunting the boxes to make space in the warehouse.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you see how they were shunting the trains at the station?

Yeah, it was interesting to watch them move everything around.

I didn't realize how much coordination it takes to do that.

Root Explanation

Shunting originates from the verb 'shunt' (from the dialectal English 'shunt', meaning to push or shove). The word describes the action of pushing or moving something aside or to a different position, particularly in the context of trains or vehicles.

Memory Tip

Think of the action of 'pushing' or 'shoving' something aside when you hear 'shunting' — it helps you remember that it means to move something to a different place.

Visually Confused Words