Rail
/reɪl/noun
A long, narrow bar or track, especially one forming part of a railway.
Did you know?The word entered English through Old French and ultimately traces back to Latin *regula*, meaning a straight rule or measuring rod — the same root behind words tied to regulation, correction, and order.
Etymological Timeline
Latin
Latin
regula
“a straight rod, bar, or rule for measuring”
Old French
Old French
roille / raile
“a bar, rod, or barrier”
Middle English
English
raile
“a bar, fence rail, or horizontal support”
18th Century
English
rail
“a metal bar or track used for guiding wheels”
Modern English
English
rail
“a rigid bar or track, especially for rail transport”