Synonyms of trail

trail 1 of 2

noun

1

as in path

a rough course or way formed by or as if by repeated footsteps

took a trail through the woods to get to the main road

Synonyms & Similar Words

• path
• footpath
• pathway
• track
• road
• walkway
• trace
• route
• street
• passageway
• roadway
• alley
• thoroughfare
• alleyway
• lane
• towpath
• bridle path
• shortcut
• byway
• run
• cutoff
• pass
• runway
• passage
• bypath
• row
• byroad
• bystreet

2

as in track

a mark or series of marks left on a surface by something that has passed along it

the slugs left a slimy trail on the sidewalk

Synonyms & Similar Words

• track
• trace
• path
• footprint
• residue
• sign
• residual
• imprint
• footstep
• tread
• reminder
• evidence
• scent
• rut
• step
• shadow
• remnant
• print
• artifact
• indication
• remainder
• leavings
• clue
• spoor
• hoofprint
• pug
• token
• footmark
• lead
• telltale
• cue
• vestige
• inkling
• relic
• suggestion
• hint
• intimation
• whiff
• remain(s)

trail

2 of 2

verb

ˈtrāl 

as in to track

to go after or on the track of

we trailed our friend into the woods, inadvertently spoiling his plans for a solitary hike

Synonyms & Similar Words

• track
• chase
• pursue
• follow
• trace
• escort
• course
• tail
• dog
• accompany
• tag
• shadow
• hound
• run after
• run
• bird-dog
• watch
• hunt
• seek
• eye
• search (for)
• observe
• chaperon
• chaperone

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• lead
• guide
• pilot
• head

Synonym Chooser

How is the word trail distinct from other similar verbs?

Some common synonyms of trail are chase, follow, and pursue. While all these words mean "to go after or on the track of something or someone," trail may stress a following of tracks or traces rather than a visible object.

trail deer

trailed a suspect across the country

When would chase be a good substitute for trail?

While in some cases nearly identical to trail, chase implies going swiftly after and trying to overtake something fleeing or running.

a dog chasing a cat

When is it sensible to use follow instead of trail?

The meanings of follow and trail largely overlap; however, follow puts less emphasis upon speed or intent to overtake.

friends followed me home in their car

Where would pursue be a reasonable alternative to trail?

The words pursue and trail can be used in similar contexts, but pursue suggests a continuing effort to overtake, reach, or attain.

pursued the criminal through narrow streets

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of trail

Noun

Whether taking a refreshing stroll along the scenic trails, sharing a coffee with neighbors, or soaking in the breathtaking winter sunrises and sunsets, life here offers the perfect balance of luxury and tranquility. —Prime Development, Kansas City Star, 30 Mar. 2025

Buttle said the woman pulled the gun out of her fanny pack and fired at people above her on the trail. —Karen Kucher, San Diego Union-Tribune, 30 Mar. 2025

Verb

On Saturday, Duke never trailed and held Alabama to 35.4% shooting, the Crimson Tide’s lowest percentage of the season. —Tim Casey, Forbes.com, 30 Mar. 2025

Miami’s nine losses by three or fewer points trail only the Minnesota Timberwolves (11) for the NBA lead — likewise for their 24 clutch-time losses, according to NBA.com. —James Jackson, New York Times, 28 Mar. 2025