VocabDictionary

trail

/treɪl/beginner Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.noun

A beaten path through a countryside, forest, or wilderness.

Example Sentences:
  • We followed a narrow mountain trail to reach the summit.
  • The hiking trail is well-marked and easy to navigate.
2.verb

To draw or be drawn along the ground or other surface behind someone or something.

Example Sentences:
  • Her wedding dress had a long train that trailed behind her on the floor.
  • He let his hand trail in the cool water of the lake.
3.verb

To be winning by a score in a game or contest.

Example Sentences:
  • Our team is trailing by two goals at halftime.
  • She was trailing the leader by ten seconds in the final lap.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “trail”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Middle English (in the sense ‘dangle, hang down’): from Old French trailer, based on Latin trahere ‘draw, pull’.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of a snail leaving a shiny TRACK as it moves slowly down a TRAIL.

Rhyming Words

Frequently Asked Questions About “trail

1. What is the meaning of “trail” in English?

In English, trail (noun) is defined as: “A beaten path through a countryside, forest, or wilderness.”.

2. How do you use “trail” in a sentence?

We followed a narrow mountain trail to reach the summit.

3. What are English synonyms of “trail”?

Common synonyms include:path,track,footpath,trace

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “trail”?

Middle English (in the sense ‘dangle, hang down’): from Old French trailer, based on Latin trahere ‘draw, pull’.