Siding

A siding is a section of railroad track which splits off from the main line at a switch, runs parallel to it for a distance, and rejoins it farther down the track. Not to be confused with a branch line or spur.

Sidings are used for many different purposes, including crew change, car/equipment storage, or for a slower train to give right-of-way to a faster one.

Sid"ing (?), n.

1.

Attaching one's self to a party.

2.

A side track, as a railroad; a turnout.

3. Carp.

The covering of the outside wall of a frame house, whether made of weatherboards, vertical boarding with cleats, shingles, or the like.

4. Shipbuilding

The thickness of a rib or timber, measured, at right angles with its side, across the curved edge; as, a timber having a siding of ten inches.

 

© Webster 1913.