IPA: /ˈjɑrdˌmæs.tər/
KK: /jɑrdˌmæs.tɚ/
A person who manages and oversees the operations in a railroad yard, ensuring that trains are organized and moved efficiently.
The yardmaster coordinated the arrival and departure of trains throughout the busy day.
Yardmaster → It is formed from "yard" (from Old English *geard*, meaning an enclosed area or garden) and "master" (from Old English *maegester*, meaning one who has control or authority). The word "yardmaster" refers to a person who has authority over a yard, typically in a railway or shipping context.
Think of a 'yard' as an enclosed area and 'master' as someone in control — a yardmaster is someone who oversees the operations in that enclosed area.