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pilot engine

noun

  1. a locomotive sent on ahead of a railroad train to see that the way is clear and the track safe.


pilot engine

noun

  1. a locomotive that leads one or more other locomotives at the head of a train of coaches or wagons
“Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged” 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012


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Word History and Origins

Origin of pilot engine1

First recorded in 1830–40
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Example Sentences

Under Mr. Van Britt's directions the engineer and fireman of the pilot engine brought tools and the break was repaired.

A pilot engine preceded the train carrying the bell over the entire route.

The coming of the pilot-engine heightens the intensity of watching, for now soon the king will come.

“I have come on the pilot engine from Petersburg,” I told him hurriedly.

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