Deltic
/ˈdɛltɪk/noun
A British diesel locomotive type, especially the Class 55.
Did you know?“Deltic” was created as a trade name for the British Rail Class 55, and it likely alludes to the engine’s triangular delta layout rather than any ancient spell or hidden root.
Etymological Timeline
1960s
English
Deltic
“A coined brand name for a high-speed British diesel locomotive and its engine design.”
Greek
Ancient Greek
δέλτα (délta)
“The letter delta, named for its triangular shape.”
Modern technical usage
English
delta
“A triangular form, especially in engineering and science.”
Modern English
English
deltic
“Associated with the triangular layout of the locomotive’s engine components.”
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