Side"track` (?), v. t. [imp. & p. p. Sidetracked (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Sidetracking.]

1.

(Railroads)

To transfer to a siding from a main line of track.

2.

Hence, fig., to divert or reduce to a position or condition that is relatively secondary or subordinate in activity, importance, effectiveness, or the like; to switch off; to turn aside, as from a purpose. [Colloq.]

Such a project was, in fact, sidetracked in favor of the census of school children. Pop. Sci. Monthly.

 

© Webster 1913.

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