Fell system

noun

ˈfel-
: a system of tracking for mountain railroads that uses a central elevated double-headed rail laid sideways and gripped tightly on each side by horizontal wheels attached to the locomotive

Word History

Etymology

after Fell, 19th century engineer who used it in a mountain railway across Mont Cenis that was opened in 1868

Love words?

You must — there are over 200,000 words in our free online dictionary, but you are looking for one that’s only in the Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary.

Start your free trial today and get unlimited access to America's largest dictionary, with:

  • More than 250,000 words that aren't in our free dictionary
  • Expanded definitions, etymologies, and usage notes
  • Advanced search features
  • Ad free!

Dictionary Entries Near Fell system

Cite this Entry

“Fell system.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Fell%20system. Accessed 14 Nov. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!